Faculty of Design

Environmental Design - Interior Design Specialization

Edgar Mena Miranda

Mount Dennis: Alternative Learning School

Located in Mount Dennis, a historically under-resourced Toronto neighbourhood currently facing rapid redevelopment, this project proposes an alternative learning campus that empowers at-risk youth through arts and trades education. The site’s proximity to the new Eglinton Crosstown LRT presents both opportunity and risk: increased connectivity could displace existing residents, but this campus seeks to anchor youth and community members by offering accessible education, public space, and local pride.The design organizes seven buildings around an L-shaped enclosed circulation spine, functioning as both a connective hallway and a shared gathering space. The spatial strategy divides programs into distinct two-storey volumes grouped by discipline: film and sound, tattoo and fashion, culinary arts with a teaching restaurant, woodworking and electrical, ceramics and mural arts, and a performance-focused music/theatre building. The administration building sits at the corner, anchoring the entrance and providing student support.The concept emphasizes small-scale, focused learning environments where students can explore creative expression alongside practical skills. The layout promotes visibility and interaction, while flexible classrooms and open studios allow for evolution over time. Public plazas and outdoor paths tie the buildings together and welcome the surrounding community, reinforcing the campus as a social and cultural resource.Sustainability is addressed through passive ventilation, green roofs on flat building surfaces, and shaded courtyards. Materials and finishes are chosen for durability and low maintenance, reflecting the DIY spirit of the programs themselves. Inspired by projects like Destination Crenshaw, this proposal prioritizes inclusion, dignity, and resilience through design.

“The project proposes an alternative learning campus in Mount Dennis that combines arts and trades education to support at-risk youth and push back against gentrification by offering free access to creative and hands-on programs, prioritizing public gathering spaces, and ensuring the site remains a resource for the existing community.”