Toronto UTSC: Retail and Parking Commons | ?m | 6s | U of T | Behnisch

Northern Light · Jan 24, 2022

I know we discussed the 'fancy' parking garage somewhere else on the forum, but can't find the applicable thread.

So here we go with a new one.

Normally, I think we could agree that a parkade does not merit its own thread; but this one has several unique and interesting features, not to mention the architectural firms involved.

First, a link to the UTSC report approving going forward w/this:

https://governingcouncil.utoronto.ca/system/files/agenda-items/20220126_UTSCcc_03.pdf

Second, some quick notables from me; followed by renders and text from the report:

- Mass Timber Structure
- Includes extensive retail/grade animation
- Sets the stage for the removal of a great deal of surface parking on campus
- Designed with adaptive re-use in mind (eventual conversion to office or student residence).

- Construction Start targeted for Summer 2022
- Completion Target December 2023

Renders:

Wood grain very visible in image below:

Report Text:

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junctionist · Jan 24, 2022

I hope they've accounted for the possibility of car fires in designing this mass timber parking garage.

denfromoakvillemilton · Jan 24, 2022

Interesting use of timber. I think this is cool, like a treehouse.

Northern Light · Jan 24, 2022

junctionist said:
I hope they've accounted for the possibility of car fires in designing this mass timber parking garage.

From the report:

ADRM · Jan 24, 2022

Northern Light said:
From the report:

View attachment 376558

Depending on the specific products, the way that some CLT is treated it actually has better fire ratings than some steel products. "Stronger and better fire-rated than steel" is a big selling point of some of the timber products.

amkd · Oct 12, 2023

I couldn’t take any pictures but the south parking lot at TPASC where this and the medical school would be situated on is now closed and a new one has been paved on UTSC’s Morningside Athletic Grounds.