Site

The Buchanan complex, built in 1958 in an iconic modernist style, is currently being renovated to help meet the needs of the university’s expanding Faculty of Arts.

Problem Statement

To work with the university community to re-invigorate the courtyards as a landscape of learning, social exchange, and academic ceremony. The site’s heritage of architecture and art will provide a framework for animating the courtyards.

Design Solution

The design fosters the social life of the courtyards through the introduction of a ‘ribbon’ that animates the site through light, water, and pockets of seating. A thorough site analysis provided a framework for the design: the fluctuating circulation of students and staff, the movement of the sun, the mature trees, and the heritage of the site were some of the key elements carefully assessed. Space2place engaged the university community in articulating this vision for the Buchanan courtyards through a series of public workshops and by working closely with a collection of campus representatives. From students and staff to food services and plant operations, a range of perspectives helped inform and assess the design concepts. This rigorous and inclusive approach led to a solution that responds to the unique attributes of the site and needs of the campus community.