Future UBC Farm Centre

Development Timeline

From late September 2024 to February 2025, MOTIV Architects Inc. has been working with UBC and CSFS to provide design services for the schematic design phase of the Farm Centre – including a review of existing facility programs, site analysis, engagement with project partners, schematic design, and space planning. The design process included input from the working committee, and consultation with Farm staff, associates and volunteers. During the schematic design phase, three preliminary design options were presented to the UBC Farm Centre Working Committee, testing out different ideas for the orientation and adjacency of indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, and varying interactions between back- and front-of-house spaces. A single consolidated option was developed and will be further explored as the project moves into design development.

In the next stage, as part of the UBC development approval process, there will be a public open house in June 2025. The project is expected to begin construction in early 2026, and wrap up in mid 2027.

An Overview

The new UBC Farm Centre will be a world class demonstration project of sustainable methods and materials that are aligned and further elevate the principles of the Centre for Sustainable Food Systems. Click here to view a larger image.

UBC Farm Centre Project Book

Pages from the UBC Farm Centre Project Book

The UBC Farm Centre Design Brief was developed by UBC Campus + Community Planning (C+CP) in consultation with relevant UBC departments and project partners, pulling together key intents and policies applicable to the project. It additionally draws on elements of Sustaining UBC Farm, a living document drafted by representatives from the Musqueam Indian Band, UBC Land and Food Systems, and C + CP.

Additionally, MOTIV Architects has met with Farm Staff and other user groups to better understand their diverse needs and ideas on design considerations to be prioritized. Focused inquiry with user groups looked to tease out more specific relationships of everyday program elements (offices, washrooms, meeting spaces) and imagine the possibilities for community spaces, including the large multi-use space, kitchen, and outdoor program areas. Feedback has also been received from project partners at Nature Vancouver, who have for many years conducted bird surveys on the site.

Download pages from the project book. The Preferred Option is featured on pages 39-43.