Durham College/University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Oshawa, ON
Construction Cost: $10 million (Canadian)
Area / Square Feet: 87,450
Occupancy Date: September 2004

This design offers Ontario?s newest university a dynamic community hub and meeting place for students, athletes and faculty. The University of Ontario Institute of Technology?s arena/pool complex serves as a gateway building — its angled presence accentuating the point of arrival on campus. Taking advantage of its sloping site, the facility?s design affords campus views from the restaurant/lounge and provides a terraced landscaped plaza situated between the facility and the university?s promenade entrance.

The facility (which is shared with Durham College) includes two ice arenas, a lobby and spectator spaces, outdoor courtyards and a restaurant/lounge. The project?s second phase will seamlessly adjoin a 25-meter lap pool and aquatic facilities.

A spacious lobby, concessions area and retail store welcome visitors at the facility entrance and provide ample space for user interaction and circulation. Upon entry, visitors are greeted with views into the ice arenas and natatorium, as well as access to a circular staircase. The facility?s open and transparent design offers opportunities for chance encounters and conveys the university?s vision of a vibrant gathering place for students.