Unlock the future of urban development by mastering adaptive reuse strategies. Transform existing structures into vibrant, sustainable spaces that meet 21st-century needs.
Explore "Beyond Preservation: Adaptive Reuse for 21st Century Cities" and discover how existing structures can be revitalized to meet contemporary urban needs. This course, featuring insights from Donald Schmidt, an architect integral to Toronto’s award-winning Waterworks project, delves into the transformative power of adaptive reuse.
You’ll learn how a 1932 Art Deco public works facility was reimagined into a vibrant community hub, integrating residential living, a YMCA, a food hall, and social services. This project exemplifies how design innovation, strategic stakeholder coordination, and a deep respect for historical context can create dynamic, equitable, and sustainable urban spaces.
Key topics include:
By the end of this course, you will be equipped with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of successful adaptive reuse, empowering you to contribute to the creation of more resilient, equitable, and engaging 21st-century cities.
Principal of Diamond Schmitt Architects
Donald Schmitt is a well-known Canadian architect whose practice is built on the transformative power of design. As a principal of Diamond Schmitt Architects, he is committed to the design of architecture that transcends convention and enriches everyday life. He is passionate about functionality, innovation, elegance, and sustainability. Don is the Founding Chair of the Public Art Commission for the City of Toronto, for which he was awarded the Civic Medal and is currently a member of the University of Toronto Design Review Panel. He served on the Design Review Panel of the National Capital Commission for over a decade and for many years for Waterfront Toronto. His recent designs include the transformation of the National Arts Centre and the Senate of Canada Building in Ottawa; the Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning at Sick Children’s Hospital; Emily Carr University of Art + Design in Vancouver; Lazaridis Hall at Wilfrid Laurier University; and the compact mixed-use, transit-connected, pedestrian-oriented SmartCentres Place in Vaughan, at 20 million square feet, one of North America’s groundbreaking new urban neighbourhoods. Donald Schmitt is a Member of the Order of Canada.
