Stantec has been selected to provide architecture and engineering for new academic and student housing facilities at Douglas College in B.C.

The college educates nearly 25,000 students per year and is transforming the New Westminster campus into a “living-learning community.” The total cost of the project is $292.5 million, and the scheduled occupancy date is Summer 2026. Graham Construction is the construction manager and structural engineering is being provided by RJC Engineering.

Both new buildings will target net zero carbon, BC Energy Step Code 4, and LEED Gold certification requirements. Douglas College’s Environmental Sustainability Policy guides their efforts to actively identify and adopt best practices in environmental responsibility, sustainability, and energy efficiency.

The new 200,000-square-foot academic building is fundamental to the college’s mission to provide an innovative curriculum designed to attract and retain world-class students, faculty, and staff. It will accommodate more than 2,400 students and 200 staff with over 30 classrooms, six computer labs, 80-seat lecture hall classroom, 60-seat event room, and specialized and open collaboration labs.

Sharing a structural podium, the new 130,000-square foot student housing component will feature 368 student beds in both private and traditional shared student housing layouts. Building management systems will provide smart controls for the HVAC, lighting, and energy systems that will optimize environmental performance and energy management. Efficient water use will be obtained through low flow fixtures.

“Our team is honoured to help redefine the campus experience for students, faculty, and staff at Douglas College,” said Mark Travis, lead architect for the project and principal at Stantec. “Creating spaces rich in learning and community, these new buildings will support the college’s goals to foster a dynamic, accessible, and supportive teaching and learning environment that deeply values excellence and innovation.”