University of Calgary’s New Downtown Campus Set to Open in 2026

The University of Calgary is preparing to welcome over 800 students to its new downtown campus in the former Nova Tower, with classes set to begin on January 12, 2026. John Brown, the dean of the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape (SAPL), is closely monitoring the extensive renovations currently underway at the site. He expressed enthusiasm for the project and its potential to significantly enhance educational experiences for students by integrating them into the urban fabric of Calgary.

Transformation of the Learning Environment

The new campus will occupy 285,000 square feet in the 37-storey Nova Tower, which has received the prestigious Governor General’s Award for architecture. This relocation from the university’s northwest campus is expected to invigorate the west end of Calgary’s core. Brown emphasized that the new environment will connect students more directly with the community, enabling them to engage in real-world projects and collaborations.

The design, created by the Calgary office of HCMA Architecture + Design, includes dedicated spaces for both undergraduate and graduate teaching, as well as research labs. Brown highlighted the importance of fostering a university atmosphere within the building, aiming to create a space where students, faculty, and staff can interact socially. While there will not be a full restaurant on-site to support local businesses, the campus will feature a communal area equipped with kitchen appliances, microwaves, and vending machines.

Enhancing Community Engagement

One important aspect of the new downtown campus is the relocation of the City Building Design Lab from the former Central Library. This facility has already proven beneficial in connecting students with the local community. The lab will now occupy a larger space in the Nova Tower, further enhancing SAPL’s engagement with urban projects. Brown noted that this setting will provide a dynamic urban context for learning, which will be vital for students and researchers as they collaborate with local professionals.

The annex building across the LRT tracks will serve as a loading bay for large-scale projects and will house essential facilities, including a robotics workshop and an application lab. Brown remarked on the significance of being immersed in the heart of the city, stating, “This relocation and expansion downtown will enrich the educational journey of our students, providing opportunities for collaborative projects with our professional community and the city.”

As the renovation progresses, anticipation grows for the new campus, which promises to transform the educational landscape for the University of Calgary and foster a stronger connection between students and the city. This initiative marks a significant step towards creating a vibrant community hub for learning and innovation.