Jiaxuan Li
Linking
Interior Design
2024
A preserved historic building connects with two new volumes to form a semi‑enclosed community center. Programs include a supermarket, gym, pool, library, workshop, cinema, study rooms, and small gallery. A fountain courtyard invites rest and gathering. Old and new linked together, reviving the neighborhood.
“This is a community center located at King-Dufferin Street in downtown Toronto with multiple functional zones for residents of all ages.The design emphasizes the sense of hierarchy and breathability of space. Elements such as double height structure and full-height glass are incorporated into the space to realize the interaction between different zones. In addition, the design also considers the demand for light in different areas, using features such as sunken balcony to maximize light, making it more energy efficient.In addition to the reserved building which mainly serves as an administrative office, the community center consists of two main staggered buildings. One of them is a recreational center, which includes a food bank and a café on the first floor; a library, and a gallery on the second floor; as well as an auditorium, a small theater, and workshops in the basement. The other one is a two-storey sports center, including a swimming pool and a gym. This division is a good way to separate the dynamic from the static, so as not to disturb each other. The two buildings are connected by a skywalk on the second floor, giving the whole space a sense of flow.The recreation building and the reserved building are connected by a long glass corridor which separates the backyard of the community center from the busy street. The buildings form a relatively private courtyard with a fountain in the center, surrounded by greenery, which creates a perfect place for relaxation. Lastly, the parking lot hiding at the rear of the buildings has two accesses, allowing easier circulation.As for the materials, I decided to use wood cladding for the exterior of the recreational center and white stucco for the exterior of sport center. Wood gives a sense of coziness and relaxation, which suites the overall atmosphere of the building. Also, wood and carpet provides good sound insulation, so that people who want to read and study can be less disturbed. In contrary, the swimming pool and gym are giving out a rough sense of power, which can be emphasized by stucco, concrete and marble. Moreover, tile and marble are great waterproof materials to be used as interior decoration for the swimming pool.In summary, this community center endeavors to foster warm and unforgettable experiences while providing an accessible, full-featured, and welcoming social environment for residents of all backgrounds.”