x̌əl sic snpax̌nwixʷtn

x̌əl sic snpax̌nwixʷtn is a low-rise institutional development under construction by UBC Properties Trust. This project is 5 storeys tall, located at 1135 Alumni Ave, Kelowna, BC.

The estimated completion date is 2025.

The x̌əl sic snpax̌nwixʷtn building at UBC Okanagan in Kelowna is a pioneering development set to revolutionize interdisciplinary teaching and research. With a name generously gifted by the En’owkin Centre, it translates to a place dedicated to innovation and collective enlightenment. The facility embodies the principles of Indigeneity, interdisciplinary and community engagement, flexibility, wellbeing, and sustainability, aiming to foster collaboration among scholars and students from diverse fields​​​​.

Scheduled to open in December 2025, the x̌əl sic snpax̌nwixʷtn building will feature over 14,185 square meters of space designed to LEED Gold certification standards. It will include research and knowledge creation spaces, teaching and learning areas with over 500 seats, and is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to baseline buildings​​.

Its design and location are thoughtfully planned to integrate with the Okanagan valley's natural landscape, featuring a facade influenced by local grasses and hues. The building will be located immediately south of the Engineering, Management and Education (EME) building, creating a new hub for academic excellence and community engagement on campus​​.

This development represents a significant investment in UBC Okanagan's future, marking it as the first new campus building since the completion of the Nechako student housing residence in 2021. The architectural design reflects both the natural landscape and Indigenous history of the UBC Okanagan campus, aiming to create a community space conducive to collaboration​​.

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