UBC Indian Residential School History and Dialogue Centre

Working with Formline Architecture, Bush Bohlman devised an innovative structural system for the centre that maintains its desired architectural expression while providing the required structural support. The composite steel/mass timber system for the building consists of various engineered wood products, including cross-laminated roof and wall panels, glulam beams and columns, tilted concrete fin columns, and large roof projections. Exposed glulam columns serve a dual purpose, providing structural support of the upper floor edge beam and glazing frame support. CLT wall panels also offer lateral resistance and roof support. The Indian Residential School History and Dialogue Centre accommodate a digital exhibit space, offices, meeting rooms, and multi-purpose teaching spaces to promote intercultural research and dialogue around the Indian residential school system’s legacies.