Students will experience a learning space like no other when classes kick off for the fall semester at George Brown College's award-winning mass-timber building, Limberlost Place.
More than 500 students at the School of Architectural Studies start the academic year on September 2, 2025, in their new home at Waterfront Campus. They won't need to look far for inspiration. Surrounded by made-in-Canada mass-timber materials assembled using state-of-the-art construction techniques, Limberlost is the future of sustainable building design in practice.
Dr. Adel Esayed, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Science, Construction and Engineering Technology, said George Brown is demonstrating to students that the sky is the limit when it comes to sustainable building: Limberlost Place spurred changes to the Ontario Building Code to allow for the construction of mass-timber buildings up to 18 storeys.
"This is an excellent opportunity for our interior design and architectural technician and technology students to see the practical part of what we teach them," he said. "This incredible building will enrich their academic experience. They will see the concepts we are teaching right in their everyday learning environment."
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Show, Don't Tell
Interior Design Professor and Program Co-ordinator Irene Gomez said the new building provides so many benefits to the overall learning experience.
"I'm really excited about the opportunities and changes that the move to Limberlost will bring for both faculty and students. There's something especially inspiring about learning and working in a building at the forefront of design and sustainability it feels like a true example of 'show, don't tell,'" she said.
"The natural wood finishes, abundance of daylight, and variety of group gathering spaces will make the experience at GBC warmer, more engaging, and more collaborative."
The building's operable windows maximize natural light and fresh air. It offers a range of study spaces, from cozy areas to larger spaces for group work to suit varying preferences. Limberlost Place was designed to enhance students' well-being.
Students from other areas of George Brown will also attend class at Limberlost Place, including health sciences and general education courses.
Expansive new studio space
Students also have a bright and roomy studio and storage area on the second floor to work on and display their architectural models, something that was missing at the former Casa Loma Campus location.
While everyone is excited to start using brand new classrooms, studios, and gathering spaces, Esayed is asking everyone to do their part in caring for the building.
"Please come to the building, enjoy it, but make sure that you keep it clean and safe," he said. "That's very important because it's a place we are all proud of."
Enjoying everything the city has to offer
The great part about working and studying on the waterfront is the amazing surroundings, Gomez pointed out.
"It's also worth highlighting the character of the urban setting," she said. "With views of the lake and countless cafés and restaurants just steps away, the new location will make spending a full day on campus not only more convenient but more enjoyable."
