Jiaxuan Li

St. James Town’s Inclusive Food Security Centre

Located in Toronto’s St. James Town, this group project responds to a history of neglect, displacement, and deteriorating conditions in one of Canada’s densest, most multicultural neighborhoods. The design addresses accessibility, potential service breakdowns, and food access challenges faced by residents. By introducing rooftop solar collection, rainwater harvesting, and a ground‑level community hub centered on aquaponics and shared cooking spaces, the project aims to build resilience, self‑sufficiency, and long‑term care into the existing high‑rise fabric—without displacing the community that has fought to remain.

“We approached the project by first considering the needs of residents who may be stranded during a service breakdown, or generally less mobile. For each high rise, the roof is outfitted with solar panels and a rainwater collection system to assist with building function.On the ground floor, the pool is converted into an aquaponics center and serves as the central hub of the community. We aimed to make a minimal impact on the existing ground cover, cantilevering most of the spaces off of the existing concrete structure. Above the pool, residents and visitors can access the aquaponics area inside the greenhouse or outside of it to learn about food growth. Nearby, a community kitchen and dining area teach methods of food preparation.”