Bold angular massing, an origami-like facade and extensive planes of glazing combine to create a faceted facade that dramatically reveals activities taking place within the UBC Aquatic Centre. A series of Y-shaped columns support a continuous skylight that seamlessly separates the folding-form into a two-sided pool hall that houses both daily community use and an international competition venue. A translucent screen establishes a luminous separation that reflects abundant daylight into the 25 metre leisure pool and recreation slide, while providing diffused light into the 50 metre high performance pool. The facility is fully accessible with universal change rooms and ramp and lift access into the pools. The project is a collaboration of MJMA and Acton Ostry Architects.
UBC Aquatic Centre
Vancouver, BC
The University of British Columbia
2017
7,785 m2
entry lobby
sustainability
LEED Gold certified
AIA International Region Sustainability Award
awards & recognition
2020
Governor General Medal in Architecture
2019
IOC IAKS Gold Award
Canadian Interiors Best of Canada Award
SCUP Excellence in Architecture
AIA/CAE Education Facility Design Award
2018
Lieutenant Governor of BC Medal
Ontario Association of Architects Award Finalist
RFT Global Architecture Design Award, First Award
AIA International Region Merit Award
AIA International Region Sustainability Award
Piscine Global Europe Pool Design Awards
Interior Designers of Canada Award
Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia Award
2017
Azure Magazine Ten Best Buildings
Athletic Business Facilities Award
2015
American School & University Architectural Portfolio
2014
Canadian Architect Award of Excellence
reception
Just as its design speaks to the balance between public and private space and between Olympian and community needs, so too does it play with the contrasting solidity and transparency of the surrounding environment.
Canadian Architect
universal change room access
universal change rooms
universal showers and change rooms
leisure pool
leisure pool
25 metre recreation pool
sustainability
LEED Gold certified
AIA International Region Sustainability Award
awards & recognition
2020
Governor General Medal in Architecture
2019
IOC IAKS Gold Award
Canadian Interiors Best of Canada Award
SCUP Excellence in Architecture
AIA/CAE Education Facility Design Award
2018
Lieutenant Governor of BC Medal
Ontario Association of Architects Award Finalist
RFT Global Architecture Design Award, First Award
AIA International Region Merit Award
AIA International Region Sustainability Award
Piscine Global Europe Pool Design Awards
Interior Designers of Canada Award
Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia Award
2017
Azure Magazine Ten Best Buildings
Athletic Business Facilities Award
2015
American School & University Architectural Portfolio
2014
Canadian Architect Award of Excellence
diving
continuous skylight
50 metre competition pool
luminous separation screen
spectator bleachers
origami-like facade
dusk
The UBC Aquatic Centre stands out for its luminous interiors. Being inside is like being in a white tent on a summer day, all year round. Outside, it transforms swimming into a rambunctious event, drawing in passersby and animating the campus.
overnor General Medal in Architecture