Student Residence Design — Xinyue Mia W.

Student Residence Design: Continuous Terrace as Vertical and Horizontal Landscape

Situated at the University of Toronto campus in close proximity to the Gold Ring Athletic Center, this project draws inspiration from its surroundings, particularly the adjacent Philosopher's Walk and the natural topography of the site. Echoing the typography of Philosopher's Walk, the design integrates the terrain into the terrace of the building. This intentional mirroring of typography unfolds into a striking continuous terrace, seamlessly blending the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. Functioning both vertically and horizontally, this terrace transforms into a dynamic, multi-use public space at the rooftop. Rooted in a harmonious dialogue with its context, this student residence not only reflects the natural beauty of its environment but also offers a unique and engaging living experience for its occupants.

Instructor: Jon Cummings

Time: March - April, 2023

Sun Path

Shadow Studies

Taking advantage of its surroundings, the site has good exposure to sunlight and green space. Therefore, the continuous terrace area for the west wing was designed as a site for relaxation, small gatherings, and rooftop gardens given its great exposure to sunlight. The landscape in the central courtyard also echoes the landscape at Trinity College.

This residence comprises three unit types, offering versatile living arrangements with 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms. The west wing is dedicated to 1-bedroom units, positioned to embrace the communal spirit with an outdoor terrace located at the end of each corridor on every floor. In contrast, the east wing features units with 2 or 3 bedrooms, surrounding a central atrium that serves as a focal point for shared interactions and connectivity. Both wings extend across 8 floors, each planned to balance privacy and community engagement. The ground floors of both wings house essential amenities, including a welcoming lobby, cafeteria, gym, daycare, study room, meeting room, and a convenient loading zone. An indor corridor also connects the west and east wings on the ground floor. This comprehensive approach ensures that the residence not only provides diverse living options but also fosters a holistic environment that caters to the varied needs of its campus occupants.

Dynamic Aluminum Facade

The facade is wrapped in white aluminum panels. Changing daylight creates a play of shadows along the harmonica-like pleated facade panels, which gradually vary from white to silver when viewed from different angles. Giving movement to the facade, next to each window the aluminum fold protrudes outwards, invisibly integrating acoustically attenuated ventilation. Besides adding an aesthetic character, this strategy enables the entrance of fresh air while blocking exterior noise especially from the adjacent stadium.

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