Ryerson University's new Student Learning Centre is getting a huge makeover at the corner of Yonge and Gould Streets. Designed by Zeidler Partnership Architects and SnøhettaIt, it's a 45 million dollar transformation of the eight-storey academic building that will serve as a Learning Centre for faculty and staff. The exterior is mind-boggling with its glass façade overlooking the busy downtown street and inside, the atrium leads to an elevated plaza, a bridge to the existing library and a workspace that makes the University of Toronto seem dull. "One floor, known as The Beach, is an open and informal study area that spans from wall to wall across several small terraces linked by ramps and gentle steps...At the top of the building, sits a sky terrace that allows students broad views of the city and access to natural light while studying."
The building's location, on the site of the former Sam the Record Man store, has been a source of conflict between the university, the city and the community; locals and celebrities pleading to "save the Sam sign." Ryerson has since worked out a deal to save the large neon sign but where will it hang? Here is Curbed's placement suggestion. Like it? The Student Centre is expected to be completed winter 2014.
· How The Sam Sign Looks on Ryerson's New Student Centre [Curbed Toronto]
· A Quiet Year for Toronto Architecture, But Good Times Ahead [Toronto Star]
· Sam the Record Man Sign Lives to Rise Again [Toronto Star]