University of Toronto Daniels Faculty of Architecture

In 2013, the Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design launched a dramatic restoration, conservation, and renovation of historic 1 Spadina Crescent, formerly Knox College, a structure originally constructed in 1875, as Phase One of a multi-phased project that transforms this iconic and infamous site into a state-of-the-art centre for education and research focused on sustainable architecture, landscape and city-building.

Phase Two is marked by the construction of the north-facing expansion, an innovative structure employing the latest in sustainable construction technology to fully leverage structural opportunities to create open galleries by way of utilizing bubble-deck concrete forming, a process that results in a lightweight, long span structure with smooth precast-like interior finishes. The expansion, a totally new building immediately adjacent and connected to 1 Spadina Crescent is a three-storey complex that is a model for environmental and urban design. The new facility features flexible cafés, auditorium, design studios, classrooms, offices, fabrication spaces, research laboratories and a state-of-the-art ‘urban theatre.’

Highlights

• CCDC-5B Contract (GMP)
• Challenging Urban Site
• Heritage Redevelopment
• New Building Integration
• Complex, multi-faceted building envelope
• Geometrically complex interior and Exterior cladding
• Flexible classrooms, lecture theatres, research labs
• Offices, café, shops and gallery
• Technology enriched
• Automated operable windows and shading systems