UBC Sauder School of Business Washroom Review & Feasibility Study

In 2022, hcma undertook a washroom review and feasibility study for the UBC Sauder School of Business, with a focus on providing more welcoming, safe washroom access for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Our team developed a strategic framework that would address washroom inclusivity in the school’s facilities, and opportunities for implementing our recommendations. The team assessed nine existing washroom facilities in the Henry Angus and David Lam buildings, identifying suitability for conversion to all-gender multi-stall or single unit washrooms. This included design concepts, test fits, and costing, which would then inform recommended options.

UBC Sauder School of Business and Facilities Planning selected three washroom areas for further concept development and Class D cost estimates. UBC Custodial Services was consulted during the selection and development of design concepts and approved final concepts, to ensure a maintenance and operators’ perspective was included in selection.

Now, our recommendations will be realized in the built environment, creating a space that prioritizes user comfort, ease-of-use, privacy, and accessibility for everyone. Considerations that, while small, impact student experience every single day! Working with hcma, the Sauder School of Business is proceeding with the delivery of an all-gender washroom for the Henry Angus building.

Located in a central location with active circulation, with great open entries and site lines, the new washroom will allow all current accessibility best practices to shine through. It is an exemplary prototype for what all-gender washrooms can feel like when inclusive design strategies are fully embraced.