Projects — Educational — Sheridan College Hazel McCallion Campus Student and Athletic Centre, Phase 2A

The Student and Athletics Centre is the latest phase of the Sheridan College Hazel McCallion Campus Expansion project. Known as Phase 2A, it offers a dynamic series of student-focused spaces that complement the existing academic infrastructure while supporting and reinforcing the recently developed urban design objectives for the Sheridan Campus and the City of Mississauga. The building’s architectural expression is informed by a number of imperatives: active and engaging student spaces, highly integrated and connected floor plates, openness and legibility of major programmatic elements, and a visible commitment to sustainability.

In designing the 70,000 ft² social and wellness centre, maximizing connections was key – connections between large open, multipurpose spaces and smaller, more defined program spaces, indoor amenities and outdoor amenities, new building features and existing campus features – to create an accessible, animated facility that inspires synergies and supports a strong and prosperous academic community. The double height, ground floor atrium is designed for optimal flexibility. It offers modest, inviting pockets suited to multiple smaller functions occurring simultaneously and on an everyday basis with the capacity to accommodate large student gatherings and events as required. The second level looks down into the atrium, maintaining an important visual connection with the more animated first floor, while offering quieter work spaces, study areas, lounge spaces, student committee offices, and a multi-faith centre. Specialty sport facilities, athletic studios, lockers and change rooms are located on the third level together with a double height gym space and elevated running track. The upper level houses office space, a vestibule and a purpose-built senate room for the college. A coherent and high graphic standard permeates the building with bespoke materials, finishes and features befitting of Sheridan’s mandate and brand as an institution.

Phase 2A joins directly with Phase 2, sharing a portico at grade and two upper level connections. A simple, clean massing both conveys the rhythm of Phase 2 and distinguishes it from its neighbours. The centre is also accessible via a main arterial, Rathburn Road, to the north and the future Scholar’s Green park expansion to the south. Open and covered walkways, a patio and outdoor turf field complement the graphic, angular design of the quad and offer occasion for social activities inside the building to spill out into the campus. These quality outdoor spaces support the desire for intensification and animate the public realm.