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University of Toronto Centre for Teaching Support & Innovation

Completion Date

2013

Location

Toronto, Ontario

Size

16,500 sq ft

Description

The Centre for Teaching Support and Innovation (CTSI) at the University of Toronto’s (UofT) main campus (St. George) is the network hub for all teaching staff and graduate teaching assistants across the university’s three campuses. CTSI is located on the fourth floor of Robarts Library, the flagship of the UofT Library system, situated in one wing within a larger footprint, adjacent to Library Reference & Research Services (LRS), which occupies the other wing.

The renovation enhances student study spaces and CTSI offices. The space reflects the future of academic libraries where students and faculty gather to collaborate and learn, featuring electronic teaching classrooms, student gathering space, upgraded WiFi access, a shared amenity room, and teaching labs that are integrated in a flexible arrangement permeated by natural light.

The Blackburn Room was constructed in honour of former Chief Librarian Robert Blackburn, and designed as a state of the art meeting and presentation room, ideal for teaching, training, and special CTSI events. Flexible furniture in the Blackburn Room accommodates 56 seats and allows for a variety of teaching and meeting scenarios.

Touchdown areas for student and other clients are flexible in use. Ceiling heights subtly differentiate study, circulation, and meeting spaces. Private offices and meeting rooms have glazed partitions and are located centrally with open spaces on the perimeter, maximizing access to natural light.

Awards

  • ABB LEAF Interior Design Award - Sustainability and Retrofit 2013