Huron University College’s new 310-bed student residence is the final piece of a built form that complete and formalize a redeveloped quad, while integrating with the existing neighbouring residences and academic buildings. The residence is a further manifestation of the Campus Master Plan created by aTRR following our work on the Frank Holmes Centre project. The redeveloped quad offers year-round accessible outdoor space allowing for a variety of functions, including quiet reflection, concerts, convocation, casual dining, fireside chats, games, and recreational uses.

The six-storey, 118,000-square-foot residence provides students with private bedrooms and shared bathroom facilities. The new building is pedestrian friendly, with two major barrier-free access points located on the north and west faces. A pathway extends between the new residence and the existing buildings to the east. This linkage provides a visual connection through the campus from Western Road through an opening created in the building to the landscaped car park beyond. The building’s exterior is clad in natural stone, clay brick, metal panels, and glass – all found on existing surrounding structures.

The residence offers amenities including a 350-seat dining hall, two 50-seat classrooms, two seminar rooms, floor lounges, group and quiet study rooms, an art gallery space, and laundry facilities.

The design features many of today’s sustainable strategies in the reduction of energy use. A unique component is the inclusion of a stand of trees planted on the roof of the dining hall, providing an interesting visual component from the bedrooms located above, while simultaneously providing cleaner air, reduced heat gain, and additional campus beauty.