University of Toronto Student Residence

Residence Design & Construction

The University of Toronto Scarborough (UofTS) awarded Pomerleau the design-build contract for its new Campus Student Residence, which will become one of the of the largest and most-energy efficient buildings in Canada.

The building is being constructed to the Passive House high-performance building standard. It features many low-energy design elements, including high-efficiency insulation and windows, as well as building systems that dramatically reduce energy consumption by 40-60 per cent compared to conventional buildings. It will provide a community-oriented living environment for first-year students that balances academic, social, and sustainable living habits. With its nine floors and 746 rooms, many of which are adapted for the needs of students with disabilities, the residence will be at the heart of a vibrant campus life.

In partnership with UofTS, Pomerleau developed an entire network of designers, contractors and sub trades that have hands-on experience working on a Passive House project. They can now apply their newly acquired skills towards future sustainable construction projects.

The residence will include these elements:

• 746 single- and double-occupancy, dormitory-style rooms with semi-private bathrooms
• A suite for the residence supervisor
• Three to four temporary rooms
• Two suites for visiting scholars
• Common areas for learning workshops
• Administrative offices
• A dining room
• Storage space
• Mixed-use spaces
• A rooftop garden
• A terrace
• Energy efficient cafeteria and laundry room

Our services included the management of the following elements:

• Project development
• Project design
• Coordination with design partners
• Site and construction operations
• Cost, risk and quality control
• Health and safety
• BIM coordination and innovation team support

Our Challenges:

• COVID-19 pandemic and strict sanitary measures to adopt on-site
• Global supply chain issues
• Research and procurement of Passive House compliant building components
• Educating teams and trades on Passive House standards.

To learn more: https://www.renewcanada.net/feature/sustainable-learning/