Dominican University Expansion Project
Ottawa, ON
2015
The Dominican University is a place of quiet contemplation and lively activity. People are unaware of the diverse role the University plays in the community at large. The current building has a historic value that can be made more public as a modern institution in the city. Their program already works very well internally, so a series of architectural interventions can be made to protect, enliven and modernize the campus as an extension of what is already there.
A series of spaces are proposed that use light to inspire its students. Light wells bring the exterior environment to the interior that provides a sense of openness and reflection. The play of structure complements this feeling of lightness with the free exchange of ideas.
The sanctuary plays an important role in the community. The library provides a strong foundation for the Dominican practice, so the front wall can be a surface through which people can see this dynamic expression as a crystal of light illuminated by the sun.
The classroom setting complements the library in its structure that undulates with its façade. The contemplative nature of quite study is offset by the drama that unfolds in the classroom, as ideas resonate in dialogue between teacher and student. Nature is seen as a form of refuge, by making a link to the gardens outside, it captures the light that dances throughout the theatre.
