Open, Playful Student Commons on the Way

With construction expected to begin this spring on U of T’s Student Commons, plans are being finalized for an interior that’s open, playful and accessible to an ever-changing student body, says U of T planner David Sasaki.

“It’s going to look like a student space and a workspace. We’re incredibly excited to see it come to fruition,” says U of T Students’ Union (UTSU) president Jasmine Wong Denike. The UTSU has been working with Students for Barrier-Free Access to ensure the building is accessible. When the facility opens, in 2018, it will include two elevators and a computer lab equipped with adaptive technology.

Located at the corner of Huron and College streets, the building will also contain club offices, multi-purpose rooms that students will be able to reserve, a kitchen and an expanded copy centre. UTSU groups (such as Bike Chain), which are currently scattered across the St. George campus, will now all be located in one place, which will be open 24-7. “I think it’s essential for our students to know that whatever time they’re on campus, there is a welcome and safe space for them,” says UTSU executive director Tka Pinnock.