Ryerson University's New Student Learning Center by Snøhetta and ZRPA

All images courtesy of Ryerson University and Snøhetta

Ryerson University announced the design of a new Student Learning Centre for their Toronto campus. Designed by Snøhetta in collaboration effort with Zeidler Partnership Architects of Toronto, the eight-storey facility features a distinctively individual glass skin with a surface design that will create varying light qualities for the interior. Sustainable practices have also been incorporated into the design with 50% of the roof intended to act as a green roof and plans for the building to be LEED Silver compliant. Construction on the building is expected to begin late this year, with a targeted completion date of Winter 2014.

Partially supported by structural stilts, the main entrance on the south side is met by an elevated plaza off Yonge street. A broken, faceted treatment marks the underside of the cantilevered volume which continues into the expansive lobby indoors. Featuring a number of open, multifunctional spaces, the center aims to provide a range of environments that facilitate studying and collaboration between students, faculty and staff.

'The student learning center will provide bright, open, technologically rich, barrier-free spaces for individual and collaborative study that will accommodate our students' different learning styles and our faculties' different teaching practices,' says Alan Shepard, Provost and Vice President Academic of Ryerson University. 'It will provide our students with a welcoming, accessible, digitally connected space that is ready to adapt and accommodate new technologies, developments and services.'

With links to the existing Library building, the Student Learning Centre will offer a variety of creative and inspiring learning environments and spaces. Every floor will have its own personality – some will be open and interpretive with flexible furniture and terraces while others will be densely filled with enclosed study rooms for groups of four to eight people. Space will be available for independent, quiet study and contemplation. With full digital support and accessible academic services, the Student Learning Centre will foster learning success and help promote a culture of collaboration and creativity among Ryerson students.