NIA Centre for the Arts

NIA Centre for the Arts

NIA Centre for the Arts

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PROJECT INFORMATION
TORONTO
2020-2021
2020-2021
DISTINCTIONS

325 Magazine Feature | TMU Year End Show Feature

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PROJECT INFORMATION
TORONTO
2020-2021
ACADEMIC
2020-2021
DISTINCTIONS

325 Magazine Feature | TMU Year End Show Feature

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INTRO

The NIA Centre for the arts aims to integrate the unique culture and artistic expression of the surrounding little Jamaica neighborhood into a building which becomes a beacon within the community.

FORM DIAGRAMS

Remove a portion of the massing to make way for a courtyard space in the rear of the building.

SUBTRACT.

Remove a portion of the massing to make way for a courtyard space in the rear of the building.

SUBTRACT.

A central mass houses primary circulation elements and provides access to the rooftop.

CIRCULATE.

A central mass houses primary circulation elements and provides access to the rooftop.

CIRCULATE.

Link the surrounding streets and laneway with the rear courtyard to activate the site within the local context.

LINK.

Link the surrounding streets and laneway with the rear courtyard to activate the site within the local context.

LINK.

The centre supports the existing local artistic community while fostering the next generation of creative minds. The building aims to become a place that community members can take advantage of throughout their daily lives.

DESIGN OBJECTIVES
Programming Space for Local Artists

Programming Space for Local Artists

Create a Symbolic Expression of Community Values

Create a Symbolic Expression of Community Values

Instigate Public Interest & Interaction with the Centre

Instigate Public Interest & Interaction with the Centre

ARTISTIC INTEGRATION

Throughout the facade, local art is present on spandrel panels that are revealed through various openings within the cladding. At night, this work becomes backlit to illuminate a vibrant and colourful assemblage of art that embodies the surrounding neighbourhood.

THE OUTCOME

The resulting building becomes a outward beacon of artistic expression in Little Jamaica. This not only signals its use as a arts hub, but also creates meaning within the greater urban context. Various public art installations on and around the building instigate interaction and interest from pedestrians and ingrain art into the daily experience of the neighbourhood.