The new Student Health and Wellness Centre is a vital component of our evolving college curriculum. Our numerous health programs will be significantly enhanced by offering a first class learning opportunity to our students.

Throughout the design process the YMCA found aTRR to be mindful of our programmatic needs while challenging us to consider the allocation and use of space in innovative ways. The end result is a stunning, practical and efficient building that inspires and cements the YMCA’s position as a hub of community.

From the outset, Scott understood the process of working with our clans, nations and our People. Through conversations, walking through the valley and carefully listening to our ideas and stories, we embarked on a journey together that was both enjoyable and fruitful. His leadership and patience in the many visioning sessions allowed for deep and meaningful engagement that was very much appreciated. He allowed the process to reveal a design that we determined together and that specifically speaks to our culture, values and jurisdiction.

aTRR delivered on every facet of the project, starting with a compelling proposal. This was followed by a widely consultative design process which yielded a brilliant concept for re-aligning the outmoded and bland interior, while preserving and enhancing the visually commanding exterior. There was ample on-site presence and consultation, as well as continuous and consistent communication.

The Tillmann team did a superb job of carefully listening to the needs of the researchers and staff, presenting design options that would meet the needs of the academics and fall within the project constraints, and working with the academic team to ensure the final design was appropriate and satisfactory to all. Because of budget and space constraints, many tough decisions had to be made during the design process. Each decision was given the appropriate consideration and explored fully before moving forward. The architectural team would not move forward until all concerns were addressed. The academic team was treated with great respect and never felt pressured to make a decision.

I have worked with Tom Tillmann and members of his firm on five residence projects at Western University in the last ten years…I have been very impressed with architects Tillmann Ruth Robinson’s ability to design residences that incorporates the important aspects of residence life. They are good listeners and have included my leadership team in the design process in a very meaningful and constructive manner.

Scott provided remarkable insights into his design that connected the structure with the best features our Northern Ontario landscape has to offer…Through his creative direction, Mr. Robinson produced a final product that is not only unique, but that has greatly enhanced the student and faculty experience, as well as improved the visibility, profile and image of the College…Because of Scott’s dedication, creativity, courage and excellence in creating this state-of-the-art learning facility, we can say with confidence that the impressive three-story glass and steel academic wing will serve as a campus dream for years to come.

We believe that aTRR took a very collaborative approach throughout the design process, and was patient during the various iterations required to fit all that we wished to accomplish into one building envelope. We felt that aTRR appreciated the history of Boler in the community, and understood the core values and vision which the Board expressed. There was an ability on the part of aTRR to listen to our staff and to Board members, and to understand Boler’s operations and programs to ensure that the final design was functional and efficient.

Over the past few days, including the Donor Recognition Night and the Grand Opening, there has been little time to thank those most involved in the success of the Maitland Recreation Centre. The project has been a success and the Donor Night and Grand Opening attendance was far beyond our expectations.

We have found architects Tillmann Ruth Robinson to be a quality firm with design expertise and a depth of resources that were able to address our varying requirements. Our relationship with aTRR was very positive as was their working relationship with the general contractor and the sub-contractors throughout the project.