Max Gluskin House

University of Toronto, Toronto, ON

The renovation and extension to Max Gluskin House at the University of Toronto, seamlessly integrate new facilities with landscaped open spaces that benefit the campus community. Three heritage buildings are unified through a contemporary addition that serves as the new entrance. The rust-coloured Corten steel of the addition harmonizes with the historic brick, and its large glass windows visually connect the interiors and exteriors. The buildings are unified through interconnected and elevated bridges. The design adds offices, a central gathering space, a resource centre, research spaces, meeting rooms, and graduate and faculty lounges. Working with a constrained site, complex program, and restricted budget, this project notably enhances the Department of Economics’ architectural character and gives it an improved street presence.

Project Facts
Client
University of Toronto
Location
Toronto, ON
Status
Completed 2009
Size
40,000 sq. ft.
Partner
David Pontarini
Selected Awards

2009 – PUG Awards, Honourable Mention for Outstanding Achievement

Original Sketch by Siamak Hariri

Minor interior alterations to the historic buildings create a more unified and coherent working space, enhancing collegiality and accessibility. Salvaged bricks were reused, and local materials throughout help create warm, inviting spaces.

Department facilities are organized around an open green space to maximize natural light indoors, and to provide views from offices, common spaces, lounges, and meeting rooms.

By knitting together the existing buildings and new addition through interconnected, elevated bridges, the Department of Economics on the University of Toronto campus is carefully designed to ensure comfort, accessibility, and an improved academic environment for its users.