As part of an extensive ground floor renovation, interpretive features were introduced to the UBC Totem Commons residence building. In keeping with UBC's commitment to Reconciliation with First Nations and Métis peoples, information on the history and culture of the Musqueam Nation were included in the design. The residences sit on the unceded traditional territory of the Musqueam.

In an example of the "museum coming to the people"—rather than the other way around—stories, drawings, photos and maps welcome students to their new home for learning. These in-depth displays, woven throughout the lobby in wood and glass, help to convey the unique meaning of this land to those who have called it home for thousands of years. 

Designed at PUBLIC: Architecture + Communication.

Photography by Martin Tessler