Jackman Law Building — University of Toronto
“The renovation and addition to the Faculty of Law at the University of Toronto is sited to make strong physical and visual connections to Queen’s Park and Philosopher’s Walk. It takes advantage of its prominent location by embedding the School within the campus while making it an integral part of the cityscape. The competition-winning design responds with three simple gestures to its surroundings: a crescent-shaped classroom and office wing overlooking Queen’s Park; the renovation of an outmoded library as a luminous pavilion connecting to Philosopher’s Walk; and the creation of a unifying gathering space, the Law Forum. The Forum, at the heart of the School, consolidates the previously dispersed faculty and enables the social relationships considered vital to the school’s success.
The design balances the ratio of transparent glazing to insulated wall in order to achieve maximum day-lighting while minimizing heating and cooling needs. Vertical stone fins run the height of the crescent façade to shade from south and west sun. Operable windows in the offices, fitted with roller shades for personal control, provide natural ventilation, and a native vegetation green roof on the library pavilion manages storm water. The new Faculty of Law has a sophisticated, visible presence that positions the Faculty amongst North America’s premier law schools.”
