April 7, 2025
Canada’s commitment to science and technology is reflected in the diverse and innovative projects underway across the country. From thoughtfully designed research facilities to dynamic health science projects, strategic investments are shaping a stronger future for students and researchers alike. Architecture49 plays a key role in this progress, leading specialized teams in the planning and design of science and technology facilities. By combining technical precision with innovative design, A49 creates environments that foster discovery, collaboration, and advancement in the industry.
This Spring sees the opening of two key projects that exemplify this commitment: the University of British Columbia School of Biomedical Engineering and the Sidney Centre for Plant Health.
UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA SCHOOL OF BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING
The School of Biomedical Engineering at UBC represents a significant advancement in interdisciplinary research and education. Located at one of Canada’s top research institutions, this facility fosters collaboration between engineering, medicine, and other disciplines to develop innovative solutions for healthcare challenges. Designed by Patkau Architects, with A49 serving as laboratory design consultants, the project exemplifies A49’s specialization in creating highly functional, flexible lab environments. Laboratory spaces, occupying 80% of the building, support a wide range of research areas, including biomaterials and tissue engineering, where new materials and technologies for tissue repair and regeneration are developed.
The building’s design promotes interaction and knowledge exchange, with open-concept teaching labs, flexible learning spaces, and state-of-the-art research areas. Natural light floods the interiors, fostering an inviting atmosphere that enhances focus and creativity. This design encourages collaboration and accelerates the translation of research into clinical applications. With its advanced research capabilities and commitment to fostering the next generation of biomedical engineers, the facility strengthens UBC’s role as a leader in life sciences innovation.
SIDNEY CENTRE FOR PLANT HEALTH
The Sidney Centre for Plant Health is a critical hub for plant science and biosecurity. It safeguards Canada’s plant resources through virus testing of all fruit-bearing plants, developing new diagnostic tools, and conducting research on plant disease management. The indigenous name for the Centre is ÍY¸NONET¸ÁUTW̱ E TŦE SJESENENEȻ, which was gifted to the Centre by a council of W̱SÁNEĆ elders and means "the place that is good for the plants" in the SENĆOŦEN language. Led by A49 with WSP, the project provided the Canadian Food Inspection Agency with a brand new central campus hub, featuring research and diagnostic laboratories, world class research greenhouses and administrative office / collaboration space. The design features integrated advanced growing equipment, and improved biosecurity measures. With its newly modernized space, the Centre is well-positioned to continue supporting Canada’s agricultural resilience and safeguarding plant health for generations to come.
A49’S COMMITMENT TO SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
These two landmark projects highlight A49’s dedication to shaping the future of science and technology through thoughtful and innovative design. From biomedical research to agricultural security, our work in the science and technology sector continues to support Canada’s leadership in scientific advancement and is crucial for driving economic growth - improving the quality of life, and addressing the challenges of the 21st century. By continuing to push the boundaries of architecture, we are proud to contribute to Canada’s reputation as a global leader in research and innovation.