Centerbrook’s Ridley College Project Recognized by Ontario Association of Architects

The two buildings reopened in 2024 facing a new quadrangle where a parking lot once occupied the center of campus. The change grew out of master planning workshops Centerbrook began in 2015 with Ridley students, teachers, and administrators. Moving parking to the campus perimeter made room for a shared outdoor gathering space and gave both buildings a front door at the heart of campus.

The Iggulden Building, designed by Marani, Lawson & Morris, opened in 1939 as the school’s gymnasium. It now houses Ridley’s visual and performing arts programs. The former swimming pool became an Arts Commons, and the old squash courts became a music center. Across the quadrangle, the renovated and expanded Evans Athletic Centre provides a field house, gymnasium, and fitness center.

Now in its eleventh year, Queen’s Park Picks invites Ontario’s provincial legislators to nominate buildings that reflect the architectural heritage of their communities. Jennie Stevens, Member of Provincial Parliament for St. Catharines, nominated the Ridley College project. A jury of architects considered 41 nominations under this year’s theme, “Collaboration Powering Innovation.” The program featured the Ridley College project in its exhibit.