Informal Learning Spaces

Not all learning takes place in traditional classrooms. Finding informal learning spaces that meet your needs is easy. Whether you are looking for space for conversation and collaboration or a quiet corner to study, you can find a variety of facilities across campus.

In addition to these informal learning spaces, UBC Library has a variety of study and learning spaces. Links to their hours, locations, and further infomation can be found here.

Abdul Ladha Science Student Centre (ALSC)

Abdul Ladha Science Student Centre (ALSC) - Various Informal Learning Spaces

2055 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 50

This Science Student Centre is a vibrant spot for individual or group study. The building offers study lounges and bookable meeting rooms. For more information, or to book spaces in Abdul Ladha, visit sus.ubc.ca/alssc


Allard Hall (ALRD)

Allard Hall (ALRD) - 1st Floor

1822 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 100

A collection of open study areas on the first level floor of Allard Hall. Featuring casual tables and lounge seating, and just a few steps from the Law Café.


Allard Hall (ALRD) - 2nd Floor Lounge

1822 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 38

A number of informal lounge seating options next to the Allard Law Library, perfect for individual or small group work. 


Allard Hall (ALRD) - 3rd Floor Lounge

1822 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 60

Informal learning spaces perfect for individual or small group work. Study in the various lounge set ups or table seating offered on the 3rd floor of this Law building.


Allard Hall (ALRD) - 4th Floor Faculty/Terrace Lounge

1822 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 16

Comfortable informal lounge seating that accommodates casual individual study or small group work. 


Allard Hall (ALRD) - Franklin Lew Forum (Room 101)

1822 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 32

A multipurpose room that when not used for formal events is transformed to an open space with movable tables and chairs. A flexible space for individual or group work sessions.


AMS Student Nest (NEST)

AMS Student Nest (NEST) - Various Informal Learning Spaces

6133 University Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 300

The AMS Student Nest is a campus hub for students to eat, shop, socialize and study. Find informal study spaces on all 4 floors of the Nest, from casual tables on the ground floor, study aisles overlooking the campus to quiet lounge spaces. Visit ams.ubc.ca/nest for more information. 


Brock Hall (BRCK)

Brock Hall (BRCK) - Centre for Accessibility Hallway

1874 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 12

A quiet 12 seat study area located beside UBC’s Centre for Accessibility inside Brock Hall. All seats have power outlets.


Brock Hall (BRCK) - Concourse

1874 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 30

Brock Hall’s student centre offers 30 seat ranging from group tables to individual seating. Use this space for collaborative or individual study.


Brock Hall (BRCK) - Study Carrels

1874 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 12

Find this study area with 12 study carrels on the second floor of Brock Hall. This spot is ideal for people looking for a silent study session.


Buchanan (BUCH)

Buchanan (BUCH) - 2nd Floor Lounge

1866 Main Mall, Vancouver BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 55

In the midst of Buchanan B block’s classrooms is this 55 seat open study space. It features a mix of tall group tables, bench seating and lounge space.

360° VIEW


Buchanan (BUCH) - 3rd Floor Lounge

1866 Main Mall, Vancouver BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 43

A 43 seat study space with small group tables and bench seating in B Block. Frosted glass panels split the lounge into 3 sections.

360° VIEW


Buchanan (BUCH) - Alcove Lounge

1866 Main Mall, Vancouver BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 8

This small informal lounge is located on the second floor of Buchanan A. With 8 seats in the lounge, it’s perfectly suited for individual and small group study.


Buchanan (BUCH) - Corridor

1866 Main Mall, Vancouver BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 22

Located on the second floor of Buchanan A, this space offers bench styled seating for 22 people.


Buchanan (BUCH) - Stir It Up Café

1866 Main Mall, Vancouver BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 64

A lively 64 seat café with large windows opening up to the Buchanan courtyard. With café-style seating, this is a great spot for individual study or group work.   


Centre for Interactive Research on Sustainability (CIRS)

Centre for Interactive Research on Sustainability (CIRS) - Concourse

2260 West Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 30

A 30 seat casual study spot on the first floor of CIRS. The concourse can be used for individual or group work.


Centre for Interactive Research on Sustainability (CIRS) - Loop Café

2260 West Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 40

Next to CIRS’s Loop Café are 40 seats, perfect for individual study or group work.


Chemical and Biological Engineering Building (CHBE)

Chemical and Biological Engineering Building (CHBE) - Atrium

2360 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3
Capacity: 64


Civil and Mechanical Engineering (CEME)

Civil and Mechanical Engineering (CEME) - Various Informal Learning Spaces

6250 Applied Science Lane, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 19

Informal learning spaces perfect for individual or group work. Study in the various lounge set ups or table seating offered on the main floor of this building.


Earth Sciences Building (ESB)

Earth Sciences Building (ESB) - Concourse

2207 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 75

An open and vibrant 75 seat area along the corridors of the Earth Science Building. Find a variety of lounge and table seating.


Earth Sciences Building (ESB) - Magma Café

2207 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 55

Featuring table seating in the café and outdoors, this space is designed for casual study needs. Seating accommodates around 55 people.


Engineering Student Centre (ESC)

Engineering Student Centre (ESC) - Various Informal Learning Spaces

2335 Engineering Road, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 50

Engineering's Student Centre features 2 floors of informal study space from group lounges to individual seating. Information on study rooms in the ESC can be found at https://ubcengineers.ca/study-rooms, and information regarding booking the entire ESC as a venue can be found at https://ubcengineers.ca/bookings


Food, Nutrition and Health (FNH)

Food, Nutrition and Health (FNH) - 3rd Floor

2205 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 13


Food, Nutrition and Health (FNH) - Concourse

2205 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 16

An open concourse furnished with group study tables suitable for group or individual work.


Food, Nutrition and Health (FNH) - Hallway Informal Learning Space

2205 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 20

Filled with natural light, the hallways of FNH offer a variety of individual study spaces.


Forest Sciences Centre (FSC)

Forest Sciences Centre (FSC) - MacMillan Bloedel Atrium

2424 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 60

An open atrium of group tables and couches surrounded by greenery in the heart of the Forestry building. This spot is a vibrant place for individual or group study.

360° VIEW


Fred Kaiser (KAIS)

Fred Kaiser (KAIS) - Concourse

2332 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 58

Located near Starbucks, this space features furnishings suitable for individual or group work.

360° VIEW


Frederic Lasserre (LASR)

Frederic Lasserre (LASR) - Cube

6333 Memorial Road, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2
Capacity: 20

The Cube is located in the Lasserre ground level nested between theatres 102 and 104. When not being booked for events, the Cube provides comfortable seating for 20. Switches are located under the seating bench if additional lighting is desired. 


Hebb (HEBB)

Hebb (HEBB) - Concourse

2045 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 30

Located outside of the Hebb 100 lecture theatre, this space offers a variety of seating including bench seating, small bistro tables and lounge furniture.


Hennings (HENN)

Hennings (HENN) - 2nd Floor Hallways

6224 Agricultural Road, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 62

This area provides 62 informal learning seats. Seating in front of the lecture theatres is ideal for waiting for your next class while the seats on the side hallways are designed for longer term quiet study. The area is well lit and task lighting and power plugs have been installed. 


Hennings (HENN) - Foyer

6224 Agricultural Road, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 42

This area provides 34 informal learning seats. Seating in front of the lecture theatres is ideal for waiting for your next class while the seats on the side hallways are designed for longer term quiet study. The area is well lit and task lighting and power plugs have been installed.


Henry Angus (ANGU)

Henry Angus (ANGU) - Bruce R. Birmingham Undergraduate Centre

2053 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2
Capacity: 50

Next to the CPA Hall is this undergraduate study area. The room is equipped with movable tables, chairs, and lounge seating. The space is perfect for individual or group study.


Henry Angus (ANGU) - Concourse

2053 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2
Capacity: 24

A lively study spot on the first floor of Henry Angus, connected to the Bruce R. Birmingham Undergraduate Centre and Sauder Exchange Café Lounge.

360° VIEW


Henry Angus (ANGU) - Sauder Exchange Café

2053 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2
Capacity: 25

A café on the first floor of Henry Angus. With group tables and lounge styled seating, this is a great spot for individual study or group work.  


Institute for Computing (ICICS/CS) (ICCS)

Institute for Computing (ICICS/CS) (ICCS) - 2nd Floor Atrium

2366 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 20

Overlooking the first floor of ICICS, this study area is suited for individual or group study. The atrium features large group tables and individual seats in the hallway next to the building’s X Wing.


Institute for Computing (ICICS/CS) (ICCS) - 3rd Floor Study Lounge

2366 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 44

Furnished with group tables and lounge seats, this space is suited for individual or group study. A number of flat panel displays are also offered within the space.


Institute for Computing (ICICS/CS) (ICCS) - Alcove Booths

2366 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 36

Located next to the main concourse of ICICS, this space features a variety of group tables.


Institute for Computing (ICICS/CS) (ICCS) - Atrium

2366 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 40

Recently upgraded with new furniture this informal learning space offers group study tables and soft seating with ample power for long term studying or group work.


Institute for Computing (ICICS/CS) (ICCS) - Demco Learning Centre

2366 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 40

The Demco Learning Centre (DLC) provides drop-in help for students having difficulty with any of the concepts presented in class and for advice on assignments and projects in many Computer Science courses. Teaching Assistants book a table in DLC to hold office hours.  To find out your TA’s upcoming office hours in the DLC follow the link and login with your CWL https://my.cs.ubc.ca/students/ta-hours


Institute for Computing (ICICS/CS) (ICCS) - Lounge

2366 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 50

ICICS's first floor X Wing lounge area is suited for studying or socializing. The space seats 50 with couches and small group tables.


Institute for Computing (ICICS/CS) (ICCS) - Study Stairs

2366 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 20

A collection of seats along the side of the X Wing building. Facing large windows, this space is a bright spot for individual or group study.


Institute for Computing (ICICS/CS) (ICCS) - Undergraduate Lab

2366 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 44

Located on the third floor of the X Wing, this undergraduate computer science space is a computer lab with a seat capacity of 44 students.


Iona Building (IONA)

Iona Building (IONA) - Study Lounge

6000 Iona Drive, Vancouver BC, V6T 1L4
Capacity: 56

Find this vibrant lounge room on the 3rd floor of the Iona Building. Featuring large tables, couches and a small kitchen area, the space accommodates individual and group study.


Life Sciences Centre (LSC)

Life Sciences Centre (LSC) - East Atrium

2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3
Capacity: 170

Enter the Life Science Building’s expansive 170 seat study space with rows of long tables. High ceilings and large windows makes this space bright and easy for individual or group study.


Life Sciences Centre (LSC) - Perugia Café

2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3
Capacity: 36

A coffee and food spot on campus, located next to the LSC atrium. Small tables and bench seating support individual and group work.


Life Sciences Centre (LSC) - West Atrium

2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3
Capacity: 110

A 110 capacity space furnished with small group tables and bench seating. This spot is also right next to Perugia Café.


MacMillan (MCML)

MacMillan (MCML) - Agora Café

2357 Main Mall, Vancouver BC, V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 109

Agora Cafe was re-furnished in 2017 to provide a more comfortable and cozy environment for socializing and studying. Furniture can be re-arranged to form groups of various sizes. An area towards the back provides soft seating for lounging or longer term studying. 


Mathematics Annex (MATX)

Mathematics Annex (MATX) - 2nd Floor Study Tables

1986 Mathematics Road, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2
Capacity: 8

This quiet ILS location offers two study tables for group or individual work. Located on the 2nd level of the Math Annex building near faculty offices. 


Neville Scarfe (SCRF)

Neville Scarfe (SCRF) - Hallway Informal Learning Space

2125 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 55

Situated next to the Education Library and across from the Neville’s Café, this is an easy space for studying individually or in a group. Table and bench seating is offered along the main hallway.


Orchard Commons (ORCH)

Orchard Commons (ORCH) - 3rd Floor High Tech Study Nook

6363 Agronomy Rd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 16

Find a number of high tech group stations are located along the third floor. Each station is equipped with flat panel displays and power outlets.


Orchard Commons (ORCH) - 4th Floor High Tech Study Nook

6363 Agronomy Rd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 14

A number of high tech group stations are located along the fourth floor. Each station is equipped with flat panel displays and power outlets.


Orchard Commons (ORCH) - Alcove Study Nook

6363 Agronomy Rd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 12

A small alcove lounge located next to Room 1001. This area is perfect for individual or group study. 


Orchard Commons (ORCH) - Dining Hall

6363 Agronomy Rd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 100

Study at Orchard’s Dining Hall area located on the ground floor of the building. The space is open to all students and faculty members, with plenty of group tables and lounge seat.


Orchard Commons (ORCH) - Study Lounge

6363 Agronomy Rd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 40

This 40 seat lounge is furnished with soft seats, large tables and power outlets. Vantage College’s study lounge is open to all students. Quiet study rooms are also accessible through this lounge.


P.A. Woodward Instructional Resources Centre (IRC)

P.A. Woodward Instructional Resources Centre (IRC) - Concourse

2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver BC, V6T 1Z3
Capacity: 75

A two-level concourse with group tables and booth seating. Located across from Woodward Library and close to the IRC Snackbar.

360° VIEW


Pharmaceutical Sciences Building (PHRM)

Pharmaceutical Sciences Building (PHRM) - 3rd Floor Study Lounge

2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3
Capacity: 49

A small study lounge located on the third floor of the building. Furnished with couches and tables, the spot is perfect for individual or group study.


Pharmaceutical Sciences Building (PHRM) - Concourse

2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3
Capacity: 110

On the main floor of the Pharmaceutical building is this open concourse, seating 110 people. This space is designed with large tables, perfect for individual or group study.


Pharmaceutical Sciences Building (PHRM) - Mezzanine

2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3
Capacity: 45

A second floor 45 seat lounge space. With a collection of couches and tables, this is the ideal spot for individual or group study.


Pharmaceutical Sciences Building (PHRM) - Study Nook

2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3
Capacity: 25

With 25 study seats along a large window wall, this space on the ground floor is filled with natural light and offers long tables and soft furnishings.


Ponderosa Commons North: Oak/Cedar House (PCN)

Ponderosa Commons North: Oak/Cedar House (PCN) - Alcove Lounge

6445 University Boulevard, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2
Capacity: 40

Find this 40 seat study lounge inside the Ponderosa multipurpose hub. Featuring group tables and lounge areas, the space works for individual or group study. The lounge is also right below the Harvest grocery market.


Ponderosa Commons West: Arbutus/Maple House (PCW)

Ponderosa Commons West: Arbutus/Maple House (PCW) - Mercante Café

2075 Lower Mall, Vancouver BC, V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 36

A campus favourite pizza place, and cozy spot to study. Featuring long tables, couches and individual seating facing University Boulevard.


Ponderosa Commons West: Arbutus/Maple House (PCW) - Rooms 2108, 2109, 2111

2075 Lower Mall, Vancouver BC, V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 12

Three study rooms located next to Mercante Café are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Rooms are furnished with group tables and chairs.


The Leon and Thea Koerner University Centre (UCEN)

The Leon and Thea Koerner University Centre (UCEN) - Study Lounge

6331 Crescent Road, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2
Capacity: 45

Find this bright 45 seat study lounge on the bottom level of UCEN. Seating faces UCEN’s garden space, and the lounge area offers a group of couches, tables and open access to a small kitchen.


UBC Aquatic Centre (AQUA)

UBC Aquatic Centre (AQUA) - Various Informal Learning Spaces

6080 Student Union Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 30

UBC's Aquatic Centre features a number of tables and seats in the various viewing areas located in the the building. For more information, visit recreation.ubc.ca/aquatics.


War Memorial Gymnasium (MGYM)

War Memorial Gymnasium (MGYM) - Atrium

6081 University Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
Capacity: 10

Two large group work tables and 10 chairs were recently added to provide students with options for individual or group work. This informal learning space is located near Kinesiology classrooms and convenient for students using the gym. 


Wayne and William White Engineering Design Centre (EDC)

Wayne and William White Engineering Design Centre (EDC) - Various Informal Learning Spaces

2345 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 140

This 3 story Engineering Student Centre offers over 140 seats for a studying or socializing. For more information, visit design.engineering.ubc.ca/student-resources/studying-space-in-edc.


West Mall Swing Space (SWNG)

West Mall Swing Space (SWNG) - 1st Floor Concourse

2175 West Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 10

Group tables are featured outside of Swing Space’s first floor theatre spaces. The spot accommodates individual and group study.


West Mall Swing Space (SWNG) - 2nd Floor Concourse

2175 West Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
Capacity: 20

A study concourse beside the 2nd floor classrooms of the Swing Space building. This space is best suited for individual or group work.


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