UBC Okanagan Child Care Centre Opens in Kelowna

A new child care facility, Sʔitwənx, has opened at the University of British Columbia (UBC) Okanagan campus in Kelowna, Canada. Completed in 2024, the 650 square meter project was designed by Public Architecture + Design. It aims to address the critical need for child care services in the region, particularly for students, faculty, and staff at the university.

The facility's design emphasizes an approach known as Architectural Pragmatism. This method focuses on finding creative solutions within project limitations, such as budget constraints. Instead of concealing cost-effective materials, the design showcases them, demonstrating that even simple construction can result in an architecturally engaging building.

Addressing Child Care Needs in Kelowna

The opening of the Sʔitwənx child care centre marks a significant step in supporting the UBC Okanagan community. Access to reliable and affordable child care is a well-documented challenge across many Canadian communities, including Kelowna. This new facility directly responds to that need, providing essential services for families associated with the university.

Over 60% of Canadian parents report difficulty finding suitable child care, according to recent national surveys. For university students and staff, this challenge can impact academic performance, career progression, and overall well-being. The Sʔitwənx centre offers a structured environment for children while their parents pursue education or work.

Architectural Pragmatism in Design

Public Architecture + Design adopted an approach called Architectural Pragmatism for the Sʔitwənx project. This design philosophy embraces the practical realities of a construction project, including budget, site conditions, and material availability. Rather than viewing these as obstacles, the design team sought opportunities for innovation within these parameters.

One notable example of this approach is the use of pre-made roof trusses. Often, these structural elements are hidden behind ceilings. However, in the Sʔitwənx centre, they are exposed. This decision not only saved costs but also contributed to the building's aesthetic. The exposed trusses create visual interest and highlight the structural integrity of the building.

"Sʔitwənx explores a design approach called Architectural Pragmatism, which means working with, rather than against, the many challenges that come up during a project. Instead of resisting limitations, the design looks for creative opportunities within them," stated the architects.

Material Choices and Cost Efficiency

The selection of materials also reflected the pragmatic design. For instance, the project utilized 7/8” corrugated cladding by Vicwest for exterior surfaces. This material is known for its durability and cost-effectiveness. Similarly, roofing membranes like Colphene LM Barr and Sopra-XPS 35 by Soprema were chosen for their performance and value.

Using such materials demonstrates that high-quality, functional architecture does not always require expensive or custom-made components. The design team focused on maximizing the potential of standard, readily available products. This careful selection ensured the project remained within its budget while still achieving a distinct architectural character.

Project Details and Collaborators

The Sʔitwənx child care centre spans an area of 650 square meters. The project was completed in 2024. The lead architects from Public Architecture + Design included Brian Wakelin (Design Partner), Irin Cho, Andrea Kopecka, Esther MacKenzie, Shane O’Neill, Catherine Wong, and Yiyi Zhou.

Several consultants contributed to the project's success. CTQ Consultants Ltd handled civil engineering aspects, while Geopacific Consultants Ltd provided geotechnical expertise. Vector Geomatics served as the surveyor. These collaborations were essential in navigating the technical requirements of building on a university campus in Kelowna.

Impact on the University Community

The new child care facility is expected to have a positive impact on the UBC Okanagan community. By providing accessible child care, the university supports the academic and professional goals of its members. This allows parents to attend classes, conduct research, or fulfill their professional duties with greater peace of mind.

Furthermore, the presence of a dedicated child care centre enhances the overall campus environment. It reinforces the university's commitment to supporting diverse families and creating an inclusive educational setting. This type of infrastructure is increasingly vital for attracting and retaining talented students and faculty, particularly those with young children.

Future Implications for Campus Development

The Sʔitwənx project could serve as a model for future campus developments. Its successful implementation of Architectural Pragmatism demonstrates how effective and aesthetically pleasing buildings can be constructed within practical constraints. This approach may inform other projects on campus, promoting sustainable and cost-efficient building practices.

The focus on simple, exposed materials also aligns with modern design trends that value authenticity and transparency in construction. As universities continue to expand and modernize their facilities, the lessons learned from the Sʔitwənx child care centre can contribute to more thoughtful and responsive architectural solutions.