Check out the renewed Jack Bell Building  

The Jack Bell Building is back in action. Following a major renewal, the 3,041-square-metre building has reopened as a modern, resilient hub for the Faculty of Arts School of Social Work (SOWK). 

Originally built in 1992, the building was selected for Routine Capital (RC) renewal due to seismic vulnerabilities and envelope issues. The renewal was a full transformation including structural upgrades, new building systems, refreshed finishes, new landscaping, and reconfigured spaces designed for contemporary teaching and research. 

Sustainability and seismic resilience were integral to the building’s upgrade. By reusing the existing structure, the project minimized potential carbon emissions that would have occurred with a full demolition and rebuild. The project aimed to bring the building in line with UBC REDi Guideline Silver Rating and LEED Gold Certification and has achieved Zero Carbon Building – Design Standard certification. This is the first UBC renewal project to have achieved ZCB – Design certification. 

Back to teaching, research, and learning 

The School of Social Work is now fully moved in, with updated offices, research labs, lounges, and flexible classrooms. Classes resumed in January, marking a smooth return to academic life in the renewed space. 

A team effort 

This milestone reflects the dedication of the many teams behind the project. Shout out to the UBC Facilities teams and all our partners whose collaboration brought the renewed Jack Bell Building to life.