The Life Sciences Innovation Hub Renovation emphasizes how public space can integrate buildings into their surroundings, providing opportunity for socialization.

The proposed design emphasizes a clear connection to the public realm by establishing a strong relationship to the building entrance and façade. The large grade change from the existing finish floor elevation to the existing sidewalk presented the opportunity to integrate site elements through stepped social levels, resulting in lower, mid, and upper plaza space complete with seating, accent lighting and bike parking.

All storm water collected from the parking area is held in a bio-retention pond with the aim to reduce peak flow rates, improve water quality, increase onsite infiltration and reduce the volume of storm water directed into city infrastructure; it will be the first in the University Research Park to do so.

The Life Science Innovation Hub Renovation will be the first renovation within the University of Calgary’s Research Park.

Location: University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Status: Construction 2025

Partners: Kasian Architects / UCPG / University of Calgary