New inclusive & sustainable benchmark community

The University of Waterloo is embarking on an ambitious project to construct a new 510-bed residence on their main campus. This development addresses the
growing demand for student accommodation but also sets a benchmark for
inclusive and culturally respectful campus spaces. The 169,000 GCA building will
be a 12-storey structure, with 10 floors dedicated to a mix of residential units. The ground and second floors will feature student amenities such as gaming areas, study spaces, administrative support, and other service functions. The design includes connections to the existing Carl Pollack Hall pedestrian bridge and a new pedestrian bridge crossing the LRT tracks to Claudette Millar Hall, facilitating easy access to food services and resident support.

This project is in partnership with Indigenous-owned architecture firm Two Row
and the Office of Indigenous Relations at UW, integrating Indigenous design
principles throughout. The building will feature a healing garden, gathering
spaces, and live-in Elders to support student engagement and well-being.

The new residence targets UW Net Neutral design guidelines, incorporating a
high-performance building envelope and mechanical systems to maximize energy
efficiency and be zero carbon ready, meeting high sustainability criteria. Site
works include expanded parking areas, an indigenous gathering space, a new
pedestrian connection to Laurel Trail, and an entry plaza with a passenger pick-up and drop-off area. Through this project, the University of Waterloo expects to create 730 skilled jobs, support the development and growth of 135 businesses and commercialize 150 new health-related products, services or processes. It will also help anchor a growing number of health-tech firms in southwestern Ontario, contributing to regional growth while attracting international startups to Waterloo.