University of Guelph | Honey Bee Research Centre

The new Honey Bee Research Centre (HBRC) at the University of Guelph, Ontario College of Agriculture, will be an iconic, state-of-the-art research and event center dedicated to honey bee health, focusing on research, education, and discovery.

HBRC will contain an extensive, multi-functional discovery and learning space, exhibition area, research and extraction labs, classrooms, a café, and gift shop and will be welcome to visitors of all ages. The facility will enhance the connection to the University of Guelph campus, the surrounding natural landscape, and the existing trail.

HBRC will be designed to LEED Gold standards with mass timber and low carbon solutions. The new state-of-the-art teaching, research, outreach, and event center will be dedicated to sustainability, honey bee health, and well-being. Mechanical systems proposed include geo-exchange, water source VRF heat pumps, earth tubes for fresh air pre-heat/pre-cool, and energy recovery ventilators. Electrical systems proposed to include photovoltaic panels and LED lighting with daylighting control systems.

HBRC was awarded the Canadian Architect’s 52nd Award of Excellence in Architecture.