CCIT Building University of Toronto

The new Communication, Culture and Information Technology (CCIT) building at the University of Toronto (Ontario, Canada) is located on the western edge of the campus closely bordered by a park. Both the architectural features and ground plan make it a “connection” element creating a continuum from the park through the study and research zones and future library to an inner garden court with an array of pre-existing trees. The long elevation overlooking the park is a key construction concept, forming a transparent line of demarcation between natural environment, university complex and public space. This completely glazed frontage is a membrane, a technological filter changing colour, reflections and visual permeability with the changing weather conditions. Completely transparent at ground level, it cancels the distinction between interior and exterior, creating spatial continuity deep into the facility. On the upper levels, the reflecting glass of the windows breaks up the images playing on the façade. Jutting elements further fragment the planar surface. On the interior, the main vertical circulation block supports a metallic-sided staircase set parallel to the main façade. The central area leads off to interactive electronic classrooms, a multimedia studio theatre and student rooms. The 500-seat auditorium on the other hand stands apart, cantilevering out from the main façade. The offices and most of the lecture rooms face either the park or the inner court. Electronically operated windows ensure natural cross-ventilation and controlled passive cooling in all public and working areas. The building is a mixture of reinforced concrete and steel with exterior zinc cladding.

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