Photography by Lisa Logan Photography
The Anishinaabe term for “a meeting of minds” is an appropriate name for a building that houses departments of history, political science, sociology, dramatic arts, computer science, and psychology. The second phase of a three-phase project to replace the University of Toronto Mississauga campus’ North Building encompasses 42,000-sq.-ft. of teaching, student study and amenity space, and a multi-functional gathering space. The design features a bold material expression with twin slabs of departmental towers clad in glazed terracotta, bridging interior and exterior. These volumes balance above a rusticated base of architectural concrete that houses classroom and student life functions. A set of articulated steel bridges and stairs are suspended in the main atrium inviting vertical movement and the mixing of the various faculties, researchers and students within the space. A central gathering space with folding partitions can be used for tiered amphitheater seating or flat space as well as large-scale formal event space.