GSS Venues

We have a range of flexible spaces that can be used for almost any event. Thea’s Lounge, the Penthouse and the GSS Loft are flexible spaces that can be set up for large events, meetings, and conferences, while Leon’s Lounge and the Study Room are ideal for smaller gatherings. 

Plan Your Event with the GSS

Explore our diverse venue options and understand our rental policies to host a successful and seamless event, while also contributing to the vibrant graduate student community at UBC Vancouver.

Host your next event at the heart of graduate student life, Thea Koerner House, offering stunning views and versatile layouts. From intimate gatherings in Leon’s Lounge to grand receptions in Thea’s Lounge, our professional team and range of equipment ensure a seamless experience.

Please review these GSS Rental Policies to understand booking classifications, required deposits, and fees for our venue spaces. By completing an estimate or contract, clients agree to all terms and house rules, ensuring a smooth event planning experience.

Our Spaces

Room fees are now waived for graduate student events, provided at least 50% of attendees are graduate students. Please note that variable costs, such as labour and linens, will still apply.

GSS Loft

Located on the Nest building’s top floor, the GSS Loft has floor-to-ceiling windows and a balcony. It offers stunning aerial campus views and is exclusively reserved for use by graduate students. The loft is a versatile event space, capable of hosting various functions and gatherings.

The GSS Loft operates from September to April. The venue will close during the summer months.

Thea's Lounge

Natural light floods this expansive venue, offering views of the Georgia Strait. Complete with a bar counter, Thea’s Lounge is adaptable for diverse events. It can transition from an intimate dinner to a lively dance party.

Leon's Lounge

Cedar columns line its exterior, and natural light filters through large windows. Leon’s Lounge is a quiet venue perfect for small meetings. It can function individually or be combined with other Graduate Student Centre spaces for separate discussions.

Graduate Life Centre

It offers an intimate setting for smaller gatherings, featuring preserved elements like an oil painting of Thea Koerner, extensive book collections, and a marbled fireplace mantel. Its north and south balconies provide exceptional aerial campus views, making it an ideal location cozy small event space.

Event Services

Our professional team can help with event planning and ensure everything runs smoothly, from the initial idea, room layout, and set-up to take-down, clean-up, etc. We also provide support and advice for decor, help you book catering, provide supervision during the event, and even help you organize music and alcohol licensing.

Note: Equipment rentals do not apply to GSS Loft. Set-up and take-down are the client’s responsibility unless otherwise discussed with booking staff.

Equipment for Your Event

Whether you are looking for table linens or AV set up for your event, we’ve got you covered. Below is a list of equipment available. If you need something specific, let us know, and we will try to source it.

Note: Equipment rentals do not apply to GSS Loft.

Seatings & Reception

Table Number Stand
Linen
Table Skirting
Cocktail Table
Reception Table in Lobby
Podium

Audio

Audio System (includes a microphone)
Floor Speakers
Speaker
Extra Microphone
Ear-Worn Wireless
Mic Stand

Visual

Screen
LCD Projector
Easel
HDMI Adaptor Cable

Miscellaneous

Mac/VGA Connector Cable
Extension Cord

Get Inspiration

Here are some examples of how our guests have set up our spaces to give you an idea of what is possible. If you have a specific vision for what you’d like, please contact us and we will do our best to make it a reality.

Questions?

For general inquiries on venue rental, please email events@gss.ubc.ca