LEARNING SPACE DESIGN GUIDELINES

SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

5.01 Introduction + 5.02 Room Size Considerations

Section 5: General Design Considerations

5.01 INTRODUCTION

In this section:
5.01
5.02
5.03
5.04
5.05
5.06
5.07
5.08
5.09
5.10
5.11
5.12
5.13

5.02 ROOM SIZE

CONSIDERATIONS

Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

Introduction
Room Size Considerations
Sightlines and Room Dimensions
Accessibility
Sustainability
Informal Learning Spaces
Doors and Windows
Finishes
Specialities and Equipment
Furnishings
Lights and Lighting Controls
Emergencies and Security
Mechanical Systems Access

Learning spaces will be large enough and appropriately dimensioned to

comply with the principles described in the previous section and to
accommodate the anticipated seat count, pedagogies, learning technologies,
furnishings, accessibility, and building code requirements. As a result, it is
critical to consider the following before confirming wall locations:
1.

Overall room size, room dimensions, seat count and type, and general
learning technology criteria are defined in the pre-design stage of
functional programming and by Facilities Planning. Rooms should be
column free. Ceiling height will determine optimal room dimensions.

2.

Projection screens/displays: determine number, size, and location of

projection screens/displays based on pedagogical requirements,
sightline considerations, and overall room size, height, and type.

3.

Marker boards (white boards, chalk boards, black boards, interactive

white boards, other wall writing surfaces): determine number, size, and
location of marker boards based on pedagogical requirements, sightline
considerations, and overall room size and type.

4.

Aisle locations and sizes: determine based on anticipated pedagogies

including opportunities for students and instructors to effectively move
and circulate to interact with one another, and in compliance with code
and accessibility requirements.

5.

Room aspect ratio (width to depth) and height: determine once aisle
locations and sizes and the number, size and location of projection
screens/ displays are confirmed, based on sightline considerations.
Consider the importance for instructors and students to be able to make
eye contact, and to hear each other

6.

Large Type 1 tiered group theatres should have an enclosed projection

booth to house projectors and equipment racks. The room should be
accessible from the entry vestibule or foyer outside the classroom
wherever possible.
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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.03 Sight Lines and Room Dimensions

5.03 SIGHTLINES AND ROOM DIMENSIONS

5.03.1

SIGHTLINES

a. General

1.

Base design on the functional, pedagogical, and learning activities

expected to take place in the classroom, and not on other external
building considerations which may force the learning space into an
inappropriate shape.

2. Balance the conflicting objectives of wider, shallower rooms (that make it

easier to be closer to the audience in the most distant seats) with longer,
deeper rooms (that may be more effective in terms of sightlines to
projection screens/displays and marker boards).
3. Ensure there are no sightline obstructions between seats and projection
screens/displays and marker boards in new construction. In Renew and
smaller renovation projects, minimize the impact of existing obstructions.
4. The room will be designed to allow for an uninterrupted projection path
from the mounted projector location to the screen locations. Suspended
lighting fixtures will be taken into account.
5. Ensure that, from the front of the room, instructors are able to make eye
contact with all students.
b. Horizontal Viewing Angle

1.

The maximum off-axis horizontal viewing angle from the centre of a

projection screen/display with a 16x10 aspect ratio is +/- 42 degrees
(preferred) to 45 degrees (maximum), resulting in an 84 degrees (preferred)
to 90 degrees (maximum) side-to-side cone. Up to 5% of seats may be
outside of the 84 to 90 degree cone, if required.

2.

In large rooms where there are two or more projection screens with
different images, it may be necessary to angle the screens toward the
centre of the room to ensure both screens can be viewed with equal
legibility and the seats are within required viewing angles.

c. Vertical Viewing Angle

1.

The nominal vertical viewing angle for the audience will be 30 degrees from
eye level to the top of the screen. Up to 8% of all audience seats may be at
a vertical viewing angle of up to 36 degrees

Source: University of Toronto, St. George

Campus

2.

The minimum distance from the lower edge of the projection

screen/display to the floor is 1220 mm (48) for Type 3 rooms.

3.

For Tiered Large Group, the lower edge of the screens/displays should be
above 2000 mm.

1.

Locate the front row of seating no closer than 1.3x the projection
screen/display height.

2.

The maximum ratio of the distance from the projection screen/display to the
most distant viewer is 6x screen height. Up to 5% of seats may have a
maximum ratio of 6.3x screen height, if required.

3.

Ensure wheelchair-accessible viewing positions meet all clear space and

viewing angle requirements. Where fixed seating is used, clear space and aisle
widths accommodating people using walking aids and wheelchairs will be
provided.

5.03.2

SEATING LAYOUT

Source: UBC

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.03 Sight Lines and Room Dimensions

5.03.3

STEPS, RAMPS AND

AISLES

a. Steps and Ramps

1.

For tiered rooms with fewer than 200 seats, consider a shallow tier and
the use of ramps rather than steps to facilitate the movement of
instructors. For tiered rooms of more than 200 seats, consider a steeper
tier with steps to facilitate eye contact between students and instructors.
Where ramps are used, the preferred slope is 5%, although 8% is
permitted with appropriate landings.

2.

Minimize opportunities for instructors and students to stumble by

ensuring that steps have consistent rise and run dimensions across the full
width of the aisle, and that stair nosings are highlighted with a minimum
of 38 mm to maximum 50 mm high-contrast photo-luminescent strip for
the full width of the step tread and extending down the face of the
nosing for 38 mm to 50 mm.

3.

Provide stair lights integrated into seating or risers. Lights should have
daylight sensors and should not be tied into the Emergency Lighting
system. Consider LED lights for longevity. See UBC Technical Guidelines
Section 16505 (Interior Building Lighting).

4.

Provide two rows of seats per tier, subject to required pedagogy.

1.

Balance conflicting aisle location and size objectives including the

preference of some instructors for a centre aisle, overall sightlines, and
"the best-seats-in-the-house" (seats that would be provided in the space
otherwise consumed by a centre aisle).

2.

Aisle location and size will support instructors walking through the seating
area to support interaction with students, and invigilation during exams.
More aisles (vertical and horizontal) that create opportunities to interact
with students are preferred by instructors.

3.

Row to row (fixed or moveable tables with moveable seats): provide a

minimum of 1000 mm (39) from table-back to table-front, and preferably
1220 mm (48). The preferred figure provides more space for instructors
to circulate among students.

4.

Seating locations for wheelchair users need to provide a clear and level
area not less than 900 mm wide for each position and either 1525 mm
long (to permit side entry of the wheelchair off an aisle) or 1220 mm long
where the wheelchair enters from the front or rear of the space.

5.

Minimum 1100 mm (43) wide aisle(s) leading to front of room.

Source: UBC

b. Aisles
Source: University of Toronto, St. George
Campus + Florida
Source: UBC

5.03.4

CEILING HEIGHT

1. Ceiling height is primarily a function of requirements for projection

screen/display plus marker boards heights. Projection screens/displays
are typically available in fixed sizes and proportions that will be
considered.
2. Ceiling plenums to be accessible for servicing and maintenance of lighting,
learning technology, finishes, and other ceiling systems.
3. Ensure no obstructions between projection screens and projectors.

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.03 Sight Lines and Room Dimensions

4. The height of the front wall for a Type 1 or 2 space will be high enough to
accommodate the required screen height (based on the screen with
calculated aspect ratio of 16:10 (16 wide to 10 high) with the bottom of
the screen being at least 2000 mm from the finished floor.

5.03.5

INSTRUCTIONAL AREA

Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

1.

Locate the instructor workstation in the instructional area at the front of

the learning space, either in the corner or just off centre stage right

2.

Orient the instructor workstation to allow instructors to maintain eye

contact with all students and to not block sightlines to marker boards or
projection screens/displays.

3.

Provide sufficient space at the front of the room for wheelchair circulation
around the instructor workstation.

4.

Provide a wheelchair-accessible route to the instructional area.

5.

In Type 1, 2 and 3 rooms, provide sufficient space at the front of the room
for an instructor table (24x60) and chair. Additional chairs may be
required for Type 1 and 2 rooms.

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.04 Accessibility

5.04 ACCESSIBILITY
5.04.01 ACCESSIBILITY
CONSULTANT

Retain an Accessibility Consultant to ensure compliance with building codes

and to assist in determining effective solutions to mobility, visual, acoustic, and
environmental sensitivity considerations.

5.04.02 ACCESSIBILITY
PRINCIPLES
a. Common Experience

Design to make it as easy as possible for people with special needs to

effectively teach and learn in learning spaces, and to accommodate these
individuals in an integrated fashion that provides them with an experience that
is safe and, to the extent practical, the same as others. Considerations for this
common experience should include all functional aspects of the space
including entrances, circulation, access to and use of learning technologies,
room environmental controls, and opportunities for interaction with other
students and instructors.

b. Compliance with Codes,

Standards and Regulations

Design to comply with the BC Building Code and UBC Technical Guidelines
regarding accessibility and adherence to the seven principles of Universal
Design. Consult these sources directly, as well as other relevant materials for
more detailed information. New space will minimally meet these
requirements. Renovated space will be brought up to as high a level of
accessibility as practical.
In addition, accessibility design standards can be guided by the Americans
with Disabilities Act Architectural Guidelines, the UBC Campus Plan Design
Guidelines, as well as current, applicable amendments to these regulations.
This additional reference is noted as it outlines requirements for some specific
space types such as classrooms, auditoriums, theatres, etc.

c. Environmental Sensitivities
See also section 5.05.2 (Additional LEED
Considerations).

Minimize conditions that can cause environmental sensitivities whenever

possible, including the use of materials with chemical aromas such as carpet
glue, paint, and roof tar.

d. Acoustic Considerations

See UBC Technical Guidelines and section 5.09.4b (Assisted Listening

System).

e. Mobility Considerations

Mobility considerations to meet or exceed building code requirements.

Notwithstanding this requirement, key mobility considerations include:

Source: Pennsylvania State University

1.

Clear and easily accessible routes and means to and from the exterior
building doors to and from the classrooms.

2.

Instructor space at the front of the room to be accessible to wheelchair

users and people using walking aids.

3.

Door hardware is to be lever-operated handsets with a handle return in

place of all conventional round doorknobs. Door handles, pulls, latches,
locks, and other operational devices should be operable with one hand and

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.04 Accessibility

with minimal force and should not require fine finger control, tight
grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist.
4.

f. Wheelchair Lifts and Elevator

Access Considerations

All interior doors are to be equipped with low-resistance, delayed-action

closers unless mandated by specific Fire Code requirements.

Wheelchair lift and elevator access considerations to meet or exceed building

code requirements. Notwithstanding this requirement, key considerations
include:
1.

Provide a direct route for wheelchair users and people with mobility
impairments to get to the accessible seating areas and to the front of the
room.

2.

Where a stairway wheelchair lift is required in order to access a classroom,

the staircase width is to be a minimum of 1066 mm wide.

3.

Provide card reader access for all wheelchair lifts.

4.

Wheelchairs lifts and Elevators will not be generally available for others
except for the movement of equipment and/or building maintenance. If
these elevators are located behind a locking door, then that door will
also be accessed by card reader.

g. Signage Considerations

Refer to the "UBC Sign Standards and Guidelines" (separate cover) for design
guidelines containing descriptions, policy statements and design specifications
for each type of sign used on campus. Tactile signs using high contract
colours are required for all classroom signs.

h. Seating Considerations

See section 5.10.1.d (Accessible Seating).

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.05 Sustainability

5.05 SUSTAINABILITY
5.05.1

GENERAL PRINCIPLES

Source: adapted from "Vancouver Campus

Plan Design Guidelines."
[Link]
me/plans_and_policies/campus_planning.p
hp

Design all learning spaces for the future by considering the life cycle of all
aspects of the project including the building, the rooms, infrastructure,
fittings, and furnishings. General principles include:
1.

Social, Economic, and Ecological Considerations. Integrate sustainable

best practices in design including:
i. An emphasis on social sustainability to bring students, staff, faculty,
as well as local neighbourhood residents, and visitors together for
academic purposes as well as other recreational and cultural
activities.
ii. Consideration of ecological sustainability through energy reduction
strategies within the general context of functional requirements.
iii. Consideration of economic sustainability through use of design and
material selection strategies that promote cost-effective, durable,
and low-maintenance buildings and improvements.

2.

Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design (LEED): design for new

construction and major renovation to achieve the most recent version of

LEED Gold certified standards or approved equivalent, as amended

from time to time, plus the additional requirements that:

i. Some optional LEED credits will be mandatory for projects at UBC.

ii. Some optional LEED credits, if selected, will trigger additional UBCrelated design criteria.
iii. Some additional UBC sustainability measures are required for which

there are no associated LEED credits.

iv. Interior improvements should use the most recent version of

LEED-CI (Commercial Interiors) as a framework until its replacement

LEED-IDandC (Interior Design and Commercial) is established.

3.

Living Lab Sustainability Opportunities: as part of UBCs Living Lab

objectives, design is encouraged to embrace innovation and managed
experimentation.

4.

Monitoring: all new buildings provide performance monitoring

(metering) infrastructure for electricity (lighting, plug loads and
mechanical system), thermal energy, and water.
i. Consider monitoring large Type 1 spaces individually to provide
building energy feedback to students.
ii. Design all new construction performance monitoring equipment to
interface with UBC's online energy management information system
(EMIS) and to include display features for building occupants and
passers-by to show building performance and inform behaviour
change initiatives

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.05 Sustainability

5.05.2

ADDITIONAL LEED
CONSIDERATIONS

a. LEED Obligations

The requirement for LEED Gold certification is triggered in all new building
construction and major renovations (i.e., UBC Renew), and further detail is
not required in this document. However, it is important to consider how this
requirement impacts learning spaces, including the following considerations:
1.

Energy Consumption

i. UBC requires that as part of LEED Gold certification, all new

construction and major renovations achieve five points in Energy and
Atmosphere credit 1: Optimize Energy Efficiency.
ii. Significance for learning spaces: All energy-consuming features in a
building must now be part of the overall energy performance
strategy for the building (computers and AV equipment are now
included). This is a new requirement that was introduced in the 2009

version of LEED . This will require additional coordination between

the learning space designer and the rest of the project team.
2.

Other LEED categories

i. The remaining LEED credits that interface with learning spaces are
not presently mandatory at UBC, though it is very likely some of
them will become mandatory in the next year. Campus Sustainability

is preparing a LEED Implementation Guide for UBC and is assessing

the viability of making a number of LEED credits mandatory.

Campus Sustainability will advise Facilities Planning of the outcomes
to be incorporated in future revisions of the Learning Space Design
Guidelines.

b. LEED Opportunities

Though most of the LEED credits that interface with learning space
environments are not mandatory, a number of these credits are easily
achievable and some provide tangible benefits directly to the occupants (e.g.,
improved air quality). Campus Sustainability recommends that environmental

performance criteria for the following LEED credits be mandatory in the

design of learning spaces:
1.

EQ 4.1 Low Emitting Materials

i. Adhesives and Sealants
ii. Paints
iii. Flooring Systems
iv. Composite Wood and Agrifibre

2.

Subject to review by Facilities Planning, additional LEED credits will be

made mandatory for learning space design, including but not limited to:
i. Credits for materials with recycled content
ii. Rapidly renewable materials

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.05 Sustainability

iii. Certified wood products

iv. Daylight and views

To implement these recommendations, the above LEED credit

performance requirements will be considered integral parts of the Learning
Space Design Guidelines and will be integrated within these respective
sections (e.g., finishes and furnishings) in future versions of the Learning
Space Design Guidelines.
5.05.3

REFERENCES

Standards with sustainability related requirements that should be

referenced include:
1.

Energy and Thermal Comfort

a.

ASHRAE Standard 55 the most recent version of ASHRAE

(American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning
Engineers) Standard 55 Thermal Environmental Conditions for
Human Occupancy.

b. ASHRAE Standard 62.1 the most recent version of ASHRAE Standard 62.1
Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality.
c.

ASHRAE Standard 90.1 the most recent version ASHRAE Standard

90.1 Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential
Buildings.

d. MNECB (Model National Energy Code for Buildings) energy.

e.
2.

Energy Star equipment energy.

Indoor Environmental Quality

a.

EPA (US Environmental Protection Agency) chemicals of concern

list (surfaces, materials, etc.).

b.

MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) filter rating

requirements (sizing filter racks in HVAC).

c.

SCAQMD (South Coast Air Quality Management District) coatings

and adhesives (floors, walls etc.).

d. Green Seal coatings and adhesives.

e.

Green Label+ carpet and carpet adhesive.

f.

GreenGuard furniture.

g.

FloorScore Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RFCI).

h. Ecologo or Environmental Choice floor waxes, cleaning products.

i.
3.

SMACNA (Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National

Association) during construction for managing IEQ in ducting, etc.

Materials
a.

FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) for wood.

b. C2C (Cradle to Cradle) certification.

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.06 Informal Learning Spaces

5.06 INFORMAL LEARNING

SPACE
5.06.1

RATIONALE

As pedagogy and learning modalities have become more collaborative and

team-oriented, the time spent learning outside of formal learning spaces
defined as "informal learning has become more important. The notion that
the entire campus is a learning environment is central to the concept of
informal learning. Example informal learning activities include rehearsals,
practice, exploration, experiments, research, note-taking, discussion, social
interaction, and instructor-student meetings and discussions. In response, the
campus and its buildings will be designed to accommodate these activities,
encouraging and inviting informal exchanges and activities.

5.06.2

GENERAL PRINCIPLES

1.

User-controlled and flexible: reconfigurable technology and moveable

furniture to accommodate a variety of learning styles, with marker
boards installed wherever there is seating.

2.

Variety: relating to context, support the simultaneous accommodation of

multiple learning activities and the needs of a range of occupants:
a.

Variety of furnishings, aesthetics, privacy levels, and choices

b. Moveable furnishings
c.

Individuals and groups: opportunities for both secluded focused

learning, and more social group learning

d. Secure and safe environment

5.06.3

LOCATION, VISIBILITY,
ACCESS

Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

e.

Attractive space where occupants feel welcome and valued

f.

Relaxing or stimulating: varying environments that are conducive to

the intended activities, including consideration for access to natural
lighting, comfortable artificial lighting, and acoustics controls

3.

Accessible and inclusive.

4.

Connectivity: Internet access and power outlets for laptops or other

devices wherever there is seating.

5.

Proximity to food services (vending areas, cafs, etc.).

6.

Space allocation: more space typically required per ILS seat than for
formal learning space, including wider aisles between tables and other
furnishings.

1.

Locate ILS in building circulation areas (e.g., foyers, atria, niches, corridors)
to support casual and planned meetings and discussions.

2.

Locate ILS where it will be most used (e.g., buildings with formal learning
space) and near to food or vending locations and high-traffic zones,
ensuring that it is easily found and identifiable as accessible to all.

3.

Provide good visibility and sightlines throughout ILS, ensuring there are no
"hidden areas" and that any areas with doors have visual connections with
adjacent areas.

4.

Design ILS to be attractive and easily maintained, ensuring that occupants feel
welcome and valued.

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.06 Informal Learning Spaces
1021/section 5 general design [Link]

5.06.4

HALLWAYS,
CORRIDORS, ALCOVES

5.

Provide direct access between inside and outside ILS, where appropriate and
practical (e.g., use of operable sliding glass panel/garage doors) 1.

6.

Locate centralized ILS on the ground floor adjacent to a major entry so that it
can remain open to all after hours while the rest of the building is capable of
being secured to provide controlled access.

Design hallways, corridors, and connectors to provide essential, thoughtful, and

valuable common spaces for informal learning, networking, and social
interaction. Examples include the provision of small alcoves which are suitable
for conversations between two to four people, and larger areas for interaction
between groups of six or more. The high visibility and high traffic in these areas
will make them popular with users, and an important element in new
construction or renovation programming.
Key interior design guidelines for corridors as ILS include:

5.06.5

1
2

SPACE ALLOCATIONS

1.

Inviting colours and patterns in durable, non-skid floor coverings to define the
areas.

2.

Purposeful character and visual interest, rather than as "afterthoughts".

3.

Privacy in some areas, and opportunities for social interaction in others.

4.

Design corridors, off of larger classrooms in particular, to be larger than

minimum building code requirements, to support student traffic leaving from
classrooms, arriving to classrooms, and those waiting or talking.

5.

Acoustic controls.

6.

Suitable area and locations for waste and recycling containers.

7.

Enabling technologies, for example:

a.

Marker boards

b.

Wireless Internet access and power for laptops or other devices

c.

Wall-mounted flat panel display

d.

Appropriate lighting for reading and use of laptops

Based on an analysis of selected UBC informal learning spaces, the following

space allocation metrics have been defined:
1.

Minimum ILS equal to 12% of all teaching space in the building 2, and a goal of
14% to 16% where practical.

2.

ILS to be developed as a mix of centralized and decentralized, with an

approximate ratio of 65% to 70% centralized and 30% to 35% distributed.

As the public realm program unfolds at UBC, under the guidance of the UBC University Architect, there may be additional guidelines for ILS
outdoor areas.
For this metric, "teaching space" equals the sum of categories 1.0 Classroom Facilities and 2.0 Laboratory - Undergraduate space, excluding
support space sub-categories, as defined in the "B.C. Universities Space Manual".

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.07 Doors and windows
1021/section 5 general design [Link]

5.07

DOORS and WINDOWS

5.07.1 DOORS
a. Door Location

1.

Locate learning space doors to minimize congestion in hallways, to

minimize disruption of learning space activities by latecomers and to
provide easy circulation flow and egress. Rear entry doors are generally
preferred to minimize disruption by latecomers.

b. Vision Panels in Doors or Side

Lights

1.

Provide either a glass vision panel in door between enclosed learning

spaces and adjacent hallways, or a side light immediately adjacent to the
door.

2.

Ensure vision panel or side light glass is transparent and shatter-resistant.

1.

Operable exterior windows to be provided where practical.

2.

Locate exterior windows as follows:

5.07.2 WINDOWS

Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

a.

To prevent direct sunlight or reflected light onto projection

screens/displays, video recording equipment and marker boards.

b.

To prevent glare and relative visual discomfort of occupants.

3.

Ambient light, especially daylight, will be controlled in all rooms with

projection screens/displays that will be using video recording/streaming
equipment.

4.

Equip exterior windows with window coverings selected by Facilities

Planning.

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.08 Finishes
1021/section 5 general design [Link]

5.08

FINISHES

5.08.1

WALLS

a. General

b. Finishes and Colour

See also section 5.05.2 (Additional LEED
Considerations).

1.

Seal all exterior wall penetrations and wall elements to achieve required
minimum STC acoustic ratings. Wall nishes are integral components of
the acoustical considerations of the space.

2.

Folding or moveable walls are not acceptable.

3.

Apply chair rails on all non-masonry back and side walls with moveable
student furniture.

1.

Wall finishes will not result in high-contrast repetitious patterns, such as

narrow horizontal or vertical slats, as these patterns may beat in the
visual field of room occupants and be problematic for video cameras.

2.

Provide the instructor workstation and other items within the field of
a video camera with matte finishes that are free of polished metal
surfaces as the latter in particular may produce video "hot spots" and
may cause video camera iris closure.

3.

Consult Facilities Planning on selection of wall colours. Notwithstanding

this requirement, considerations include:
a.

Accent colours on walls. Minor wall graphics that are general and
thematic may be considered.

b. Warmer wall colours are preferred.

c.

Colours of wall finishes and furnishings to be coordinated.

d. Table colour will not be white and instructor workstations will not
be black. Instructor workstations in rooms with chalkboards should
be lighter in colour to hide chalk dust.
e.

5.08.2

5.08.3

CEILINGS

FLOORS

See also section 5.05.2 (Additional LEED

Considerations).

For videoconferencing/AV-capture-enabled rooms (Type 6), a light

"dove grey" colour or equivalent is ideal for the surfaces near an
instructor. Brightly lit pure-white surfaces will be avoided to ensure
that the instructor or student is imaged appropriately by the camera
and to reduce light reflections when data projectors are in use.

1.

See section 5.03.4 Ceiling Height for ceiling height guidelines.

2.

Ceiling nishes to be matte, light in colour and highly reflective balancing the requirements for projection screen/display viewing and
natural light penetration into the space

1. Sealed concrete floors in seating areas are preferable in all formal learning
spaces (Type 1, 2, 3, 4) except for videoconferencing/AV-capture-enabled
rooms (Type 6) which require carpet.
2. Concrete floors are not acceptable in front of formal learning instructional
areas, aisles, or stairs.
3. Carpet is not generally acceptable in learning spaces, except for
videoconferencing/AV-capture-enabled rooms (Type 6), and never in front of
chalkboards. Where carpet is used with the approval of Facilities Planning, it
should be multi-coloured or patterned rather than solid colour.
4. Consult Facilities Planning on selection of colours for all floor surfaces.

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LEARNING SPACE DESIGN GUIDELINES

SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.09 Specialities and Equipment

5.09

SPECIALITIES and
EQUIPMENT

5.09.1

MARKER BOARDS

In this document, the term "marker board"

is used for whiteboards, chalkboards,
blackboards, interactive whiteboards or
other wall writing surfaces.

1. Locate marker boards at the front wall and depending on room type,
anticipated pedagogy and Facilities Planning requirements, at sidewalls
and rear wall.
2. Locate marker boards so they can be used simultaneously with the
projection screens/display.
3. Do not locate marker boards behind instructor workstation if the
instructor workstation blocks the view of the marker board from student
seating positions.
4. Marker board material will be porcelain on enamel. Chalk rails will be
ordered and installed for each board.

5.09.2

TACK BOARDS, NOTICE

BOARDS

1.

5.09.3

SIGNAGE
CONSIDERATIONS

1. Refer to the "UBC Sign Standards and Guidelines" (separate cover) for
design guidelines contain descriptions, policy statements and design
specifications for each type of sign used on campus.

5.09.4

LEARNING TECHNOLOGY AND

AV SYSTEM CATEGORIES

a. General

Do not locate tack boards or notice boards inside or immediately outside

of enclosed learning spaces

1.

For comprehensive design guidelines and technical guidelines relating to

learning technology and AV systems, contact Manager, AV Group,
Information Technology. Categories are Basic, Enhanced, Enhanced Plus,
Hi-Tech, and AV Capture Enabled.

b. Assisted Listening System

1.

There is a requirement for assisted listening systems in learning spaces of

100 seats or greater.

c. Microphones and Voice

Amplification

1.

In rooms with 75 seats or fewer, amplification of the instructor's voice is

optional. In rooms with more than 75 seats, amplification of the
instructor's voice is required.

2.

Student seats will not be provided with microphones, except for

videoconferencing/AV-capture-enabled rooms (Type 6) where one
microphone per two seats is required.

1.

For rooms of 50 seats or more, provide one standard UBC instructor

workstation of the appropriate size. For rooms of fewer than 40 seats,
consult Manager, AV Group, Information Technology. All Type 1, 2, or 3
rooms will have an instructor table and chair.

2.

Lighting, screen and room controls to be easily accessible from a wall

panel and/or the instructor workstation.

3.

The fixed lectern position in Type 1 rooms requires either deep floor

See also section 5.05.2 (Additional LEED

Considerations).

d. Instructor Workstation

Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.09 Specialities and Equipment

boxes or conduit stubbing into the lectern. Front stage area will require
adequate slab thickness to accommodate floor boxes.
e. Video Cameras

f. Confidence Monitors

g. Wireless Internet

Video cameras are required in rooms designated as videoconferencing/AVcapture-enabled rooms (Type 6) or distributed learning. The design team will
need to make allowances for the successful incorporation of cameras in
these rooms, including the following:
1.

Ambient light control from exterior windows is a critical issue. A room

without windows is optimal for use with a video camera. Any windows
will need a full blackout blind with edge guides.

2.

Optimization of artificial lighting is also a critical issue. Light levels will

need to be higher than normal for camera use, and will need to be
directed and controlled for optimum image-pickup.

3.

Lighting fixture type and placement will also be critically important.

Fixtures will be selected to eliminate hot spots in the cameras field of
view.

4.

The finishes in the camera field of view will be optimized to avoid glare,
moir patterns, and lighting or contrast issues. Metal finishes will be
matte and not polished. Paint finishes should be matte and should be
optimized to provide good contrast for the instructors. White finishes
should be avoided as they create problems with the iris opening of the
video camera.

5.

Camera placement and field of view are critical elements in making

these rooms successful. Camera placement will be a priority in the
design process. The cameras may need to be wall- or ceiling-mounted,
depending on the ceiling height. In classrooms with projection booths, if
the camera is mounted in the booth, it will need to be behind antireflection coated glass, like the projector port glass.

Video confidence monitors are required in videoconferencing/AV-captureenabled rooms. The design team will need to make allowances for the
successful incorporation of confidence monitors in these rooms, including
the following:
1.

The flat panel displays for these monitors will need to be large enough
to provide good viewing for the instructor.

2.

In smaller rooms, flat screen confidence monitors may be required

along the rear wall in line of sight of the instructor standing at the
lectern. They may be wall-mounted or ceiling-hung at that location.

3.

In larger rooms, the flat screen confidence monitors may be required in

the millwork of the front row of fixed tables or in millwork in the tables
near eye-level where the seating tiers are steeper.

Additional wireless access points must be installed to handle the potential

capacity of the learning space:
1.

Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

See UBC Communication Guideline Specifications section 4.3 (Special

Rooms and Areas).

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LEARNING SPACE DESIGN GUIDELINES

SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.10 Furnishings

5.10

FURNISHINGS

5.10.1

SEATING

a. General
See also section 5.05.2 (Additional LEED
Considerations).

b. Area Requirements by Room

and Seating Types

1.

Chair selection to comply with classroom standards. Departments that

require different seats or seat configurations will seek approval from
Facilities Planning and may be responsible for replacement costs.

2.

All learning spaces should offer a choice of seating with and without
armrests.

1.

The area per seat may not be less than the minimum noted in the
following table. For reference, the lower figures in the seat capacity
ranges refer to the largest seat capacities for that room type, and the
higher figures in the range refer to the smallest seat capacities for that
room type reflecting relative efficiencies that are expected in larger
rooms of any given type.

Type
1. Tiered Large Group
2. Case-Style
3. Open Design General Purpose
4. Small Group
5. Studio Lab
6. Videoconferencing/AV-Capture-Enabled
7. Informal

1a.
1b.
4a.
4b.
6a. Centralized
6b. Decentralized
6c. Caf

Seat
Capacity

Basic Furnishings

NSM/Seat

75-200
201-500
40-100
40-120
8-16
16-40
40-80
8-500
varies
varies
varies

Fixed tables, moveable chairs

Fixed tables, moveable chairs
Fixed tables, moveable chairs
Moveable tables and chairs
Moveable tables and chairs
Moveable tables and chairs
Fixed tables, moveable chairs
varies
varies
varies
varies

2.60 to 2.20
2.20 to 1.85
2.80 to 2.40
2.60 to 2.20
2.50 to 2.20
2.90 to 2.50
up to 5.30
3.50 to 2.20
varies
varies
varies

c. Power at Student Seats

See section 5.10.2b (Power at Student Tables).

d. Accessible Seating

1.

Accessible seating is an integral part of any learning space with a fixed

seating plan and will provide users with choice of sightlines and seat
locations. Wheelchair access to the front and back of the room is a
minimal requirement, and if practical, access should also be available
to the middle of the room.

2.

Seating locations for wheelchair users need to provide a clear and level
area not less than 915 mm wide for each position and either 1252 mm
long (to permit side entry of the wheelchair off an aisle), or 1220 mm
long (where the wheelchair enters from the front or rear of the space).

3.

A minimum of 5% of the total number of room seats and not fewer

than two seats in rooms with fixed seating will be designated as
accessible and reserved for persons in wheelchairs or with other
accessible seating requirements. Locate these spaces close to a door.
Readily removable seats may be installed in these spaces when they
are not required to accommodate accessible seating users.

4.

Accessible seating knee space to be a minimum of 730 mm to 760 mm

(28 to 30) high, 760 mm (30") wide, and 450 mm to 480 mm (18 to
19") deep (as per International Best Practices of Universal Design).

Source: original UBC Classroom Design

Guidelines.

Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.10 Furnishings

5.

Accessible table and counter-tops to be from 760 mm to 865 mm (30"

to 34") above the finished floor (as per International Best Practices of
Universal Design), and easily adjustable by the user.

6.

Power-operated-wheelchair users require higher knee clearance and

counter services, therefore maximum height dimensions are
recommended.

e. Tablet-Arm and Drop-Arm

Seats
Source: UBC

f.

Seat Numbering

5.10.2

Tablet-arm chairs and drop-arm seating are not considered acceptable and
may only be considered when preferred options are not feasible and with
the approval of Facilities Planning, in which case consider the following:
1.

Tablet surface area to be over-sized/over standard.

2.

A minimum of 10% to 20% of writing tablets are to be left-handed.

1.

Though fixed seating is not generally acceptable, should it be required

with the approval of Facilities Planning, then seat numbers will be
included for all fixed seats. All rows require unique identifiers at each
end.

STUDENT TABLES

a. General
Source: UBC
See also section 5.05.2 (Additional LEED
Considerations).

Standard Moveable Student Table

All Student Tables

1. Tables to comply with classroom standards. Departments that require
different tables or table configurations will seek approval from Facilities
Planning and may be responsible for replacement costs.
Fixed Student Tables
2.

Provide a small edge "lip" to help prevent items on the tables from falling off.

3.

Ensure that tables have no sharp edges and are constructed so that they
are not easily vandalized or damaged.

4.

Ensure that surfaces are cantilevered to minimize the number of legs

and optimize opportunities for flexible movement of seats.

5.

Provide a front modesty panel, with the lower edge of the panel placed
high enough above the floor so that feet will not kick it and result in
damage. A foot rail should be considered to provide comfort as well as
to keep feet away from the panel.

6.

Fixed student tables, used in tiered rooms (Type 1 and 2) will comply
with classroom standards (width per seat: 760 mm/30 minimum, depth:
457 mm/18 minimum to 508 mm/20 preferred).

Moveable Student Tables

b. Power at Student Tables

Source: UBC

Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

1.

Moveable student tables, used in most flat floor rooms (Type 3 and 4)
will comply with classroom standards.

1.

Provide access to power at student tables as follows:

a.

Tiered rooms (Type 1 and 2): minimum of 50% of all seats provided
with one power point and, as practical, a preference for one power
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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.10 Furnishings

point per seat.

5.10.3

b.

Flat floor rooms (Type 3, 4): minimum of 30% of all seats provided
with one power point and, as practical, a preference for up to one
power point per two seats. Power points will be accessible for
students without power cords creating a tripping hazard.

c.

Videoconferencing/AV-capture-enabled rooms (Type 6): power

requirements to be defined to suit individual room requirements.

d.

Informal learning areas (Type 7): power requirements to be defined

to suit individual space requirements, with an initial rule of thumb to
be one power point per three seats.

MISCELLANEOUS

a. Garbage and Recycling

Containers

1.

Source: UBC

b. Clocks
Source: UBC

c. Coat Hanging Racks

Provide garbage and recycling containers (approved by Building

Operations) in major circulation areas adjacent to all rooms (Types 1-6),
and in larger informal Type 7 informal learning areas. Position containers
so that they do not interfere with other room functions or circulation.

1. Provide a Primex Wireless Synchronous Network System (SNS) Wi-Fi clock

in each enclosed learning space and in larger informal learning spaces as
per UBC Technical Guidelines Section 16730 (Clock and Program Bell).
2.

Locate clock on the side wall at the end of the first or second row, so it is
easily seen by the instructor and students.

3.

Very large Type 1 tiered rooms may require more than one clock.

4.

Dual-sided clocks are not permitted.

1.

Coat hanging racks and hooks do not need to be provided.

Source: UBC

Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.11 Lights and Lighting Controls

5.11

LIGHTS AND LIGHTING

CONTROLS

5.11.1

CONSULTATION

1.

5.11.2

ROOM LIGHTING ZONES

1. There are four general lighting zones which can be combined and or
used individually to create a number of different lighting schemes in
learning spaces, as follows:

2.

3.

5.11.3

VIDEOCONFERENCING
AND LECTURE-CAPTURE
ENABLED ROOMS

Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

Consult Manager, AV Group, Information Technology on lighting

system selection.

a.

Zone 1: Marker boards - uniform lighting of marker boards with

sufficient illumination for legibility of writing from all seats. Switch
these lamps separately from the rest of the room. These may
require division into left and right zones.

b.

Zone 2: Front of Room - uniform ambient lighting for the front of

room instructor area with sufficient illumination to support
visibility of instructor, other front of room participants, and
anticipated demonstrations, without directing light onto the
screen surface.

c.

Zone 3: Front Seating - uniform ambient lighting for the front rows
of seats with sufficient illumination to support reading, note-taking
and visibility of seat occupants by the instructor and by other
room occupants.

d.

Zone 4: Back Seating - uniform ambient lighting for the back rows
of seats with sufficient illumination to support reading, note-taking
and visibility of seat occupants by the instructor and by other
room occupants.

Determination of the required zones in any given room requires approval

by Manager, AV Group, Information Technology and is generally a
function of room seat capacity and size, as follows:
a.

Fewer than 75 seats: two to three zones

b.

Greater than 75 seats: four or more zones

In learning spaces that have been designed with daylighting, zone the
lighting system so that the lights in the naturally lit area can be dimmed
or turned off when sufficient daylight is detected.

1.

Videoconference (VC)-specific lighting is required for VC-enabled rooms

This will include specific zoning, delineated coverage of specific areas and
specific illumination levels, much higher than the lighting requirements
for regular classrooms

2.

The performance of VC- or lecture capture-enabled classroom lighting is

of key importance and may conflict with energy efficiency goals. Lighting
in these rooms will also support regular light levels for conventional/nonVC uses.

3.

Colour temperature (3500 degrees Kelvin) is required in Tiered Large

Group (Type 1) rooms. Different lights/colour temperature will not be
mixed.

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.11 Lights and Lighting Controls

5.11.4

5.11.5

LAMP REPLACEMENT
SERVICEABILITY AND
MAINTENANCE

4.

The lighting dimmer system will have remote-control access capability

via RS 232 for remote ON/OFF and preset recall control from the AV
control system.

5.

The instructor area as identified in the lighting requirements drawing

will have specific illumination levels.

6.

The room lighting that falls on the projection screen surface will be
separately switched.

7.

Increased light levels may require more light fixtures or higher power,
producing an elevated HVAC load. Select light fixtures with the highest
luminous efficacy to reduce the impact on heat load.

1.

Incorporate fixtures that use lamps that are readily available, recyclable,
energy-efficient, long-lasting, and that provide ease of maintenance
(e.g., lamp replacement and fixture maintenance). Dimmable ballasts are
not recommended for classrooms, except for videoconferencing and
lecture-capture enabled rooms.

2.

For tiered rooms (Type 1 and 2) with high ceilings, lamp replacement
and fixture maintenance are of particular importance. For reference,
high-ceilinged rooms can be defined as rooms requiring scaffolding for
light fixture maintenance or lamp replacement.

LIGHT SWITCHES AND

SENSORS

a. Light Switch Control Locations

and Type

b. Occupancy Sensors

1.

Provide labeled zone lighting diagram at each switch location. Zone

label design will be approved by Manager, AV Group, Information
Technology.

2.

Locate light switches at each entrance to the room as well as on the

instructor workstation.

3.

Duplicate light switches in the projection booth.

4.

Orient light switch positions and labeling to the room orientation.

5.

Provide vestibule light switch at each vestibule door.

6.

Provide light switches at the ends of ramps inside and into classrooms.

7.

Where lighting controls are included in the AV system touch panel

function, a basic wall-mount button panel to control lighting zones or
preset selection should be included close to the instructor location.

1.

Install programmable dual-technology sensors to automatically shut

off the lights in the learning space and entry vestibule when vacant.
Install a sufficient number of sensors in appropriate locations to
detect occupancy throughout the room. Calibrate the sensors
sensitivity to the appropriate magnitude of motion and to avoid
conditions that may result in false triggering. All occupancy sensors
will have the capacity to:
1. Automatically shut down all lights approximately 15 minutes after
no room activity is sensed.

Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.11 Lights and Lighting Controls

2. Provide a warning flash prior to turning off the lights so that if

occupants are still present, they may trigger the sensor and avoid
having the lights turn off.
3. Automatically turn on the main room lights within one second
after activity is sensed.

c. Daylighting Controls

Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

2.

Provide a light switch at each entrance to the room.

1.

In spaces that have been designed with daylighting systems, install

photosensors to automatically adjust the electric lights.

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.12 Emergencies and Security

5.12

EMERGENCIES AND
SECURITY

5.12.1

EMERGENCIES

5.12.2

1.

Exits from learning spaces to minimally comply with the BC Building Code
regarding panic hardware for use in case of emergencies.

2.

Lockdown capacity is required for all buildings and learning spaces in

compliance with UBC lockdown procedures.

3.

As per UBC requirements, Emergency "Blue Phones" that connect the

user directly to Campus Security should be located in strategic and
visible external locations.

KEY STRATEGIES, CARD ACCESS, SECURITY

OF LEARNING TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT

a. Key Strategies and Card

Reader Access

b. Security of Learning Technology

Equipment

Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

1.

Provide card reader access to all buildings with learning spaces, at the
perimeter building doors.

2.

Provide all doors with a classroom-type lock so that they can only be
locked or unlocked with a key kept by Facilities Planning. For
buildings with card reader access, provide infrastructure for future
card readers in all learning spaces.

3.

Keys to be managed by UBC Parking and Access Control Services.

4.

For projection rooms and media technology rooms/closets provide

the following:
a.

Proximity card reader or approved lock that is programmable by

Manager, AV Group, Information Technology and located on the
wall adjacent to the door lever.

b.

Mechanical key override (refer to the UBC Grand Master Key

System, separate cover), with any mechanical locks installed in the
doors to be deadbolt locks that are card-activated.

c.

Electrified hardware solution

d.

Door closure.

e.

Intrusion system protection as recommended by UBC Secure

Access.

1.

Security of learning technology equipment (e.g., computers, projectors,

screens, DVD players, instructor workstations, etc.) will comply with AV
Technical Guidelines.

2.

Projection room windows utilizing anti-reflection coating on projection

windows and security bars on anti-reflection coated projection port
glazing.

3.

Coordinate design with Manager, AV Group, Information Technology to

ensure that audiovisual equipment is appropriately secured.

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LEARNING SPACE DESIGN GUIDELINES

SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.13 Mechanical Systems Access

5.13

MECHANICAL SYSTEMS
ACCESS

Source: Emory College

Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

1.

Design HVAC systems so there is minimal need to access the systems for
maintenance via the classroom.

2.

Locate mechanical equipment needing routine service in a location

outside the classroom to allow servicing without disrupting the class.

3.

Provide above ceiling equipment with adequate access for servicing.

4.

Mechanical systems will not be installed in, above, or around AV

projection booths.

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SECTION 5: GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
5.13 Mechanical Systems Access

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Facilities Planning, Infrastructure Development

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