Project:

Conestoga College One Young

Interior Design:

Dfy Studio

Contractor:

Govan Brown

Location:

Kitchener, Ontario

 
Conestoga’s New Downtown Kitchener Location Celebrates Heritage with Innovative Mass Timber Design – Phase 1
 
Conestoga’s newest addition in downtown Kitchener is a completely new construction, yet it thoughtfully reflects the architectural elements of the historic building that once occupied the corner of Young and King streets. One Young Street, the Waterloo Region’s pioneering mass timber structure, combines the timeless charm of a century-old brick and beam edifice with exposed wooden beams and lofty ceilings, while incorporating a full suite of modern amenities. The building’s expansive windows feature custom translucent images replicating the Mayfair Hotel’s brickwork, honoring the location’s heritage while offering uninterrupted vistas of Victoria Park, city hall, and the downtown core.
 
Conestoga has assumed occupancy of the entire building, except for the ground floor, requiring comprehensive interior finishing to transform it into a learning environment. The nearly $8-million project is being executed in two phases. Phase 1, encompassing the lobby and second floor, opened to students in January 2024, following the commencement of work in the previous October. The second phase, comprising floors 3, 4, and 5, opened in May (Photos coming soon).
 
Each floor houses four classrooms, with the exception of the top storey, which features a lounge and gathering area. Additionally, there is designated space for employees and numerous spots for students to socialize or study. Every floor showcases exposed wood ceilings, columns, and beams.