Here at UT we tend to stick to development projects closer in, but occasionally we check out interesting projects outside the city. 

Out in Oshawa at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT), architectural firm Diamond + Schmitt has been working on the master plan and buildings for the entire campus.

Their most recent completed building, the General Motors of Canada Automotive Centre of Excellence (ACE), was inaugurated last week. 

Speakers at the opening ceremony included Federal Minister of Finance Jim Flaherty, Kevin Williams, President and Managing Director of GM Canada, and Ontario Minister of Economic Development and Trade Sandra Pupatello. 

UOIT ACE Opening Ceremony Guests of Honour (L-R John Milloy-Ontario Minister of Training Colleges and Universities, Jim Flaherty, Kevin Williams, Sandra Pupatello), photo by Ian Goodall

The multi-purpose facility combines industrial research and educational programming. Its most unique and distinctive element, the aerodynamic and climatic wind tunnel, will be used for research and as a testing ground for product innovation, from cars to computers. 

UOIT ACE Wind Tunnel Diagram, courtesy of Diamond+Schmitt

Most university projects develop with public and private support. While General Motors offered their philanthropic support for the facility, they do not have exclusive access to the ACE; it will be available for bookings from any auto manufacturer. ACE is fully owned by the University and will operate independently as a research and training facility. 

UOIT ACE Wind Tunnel Lab, photo by Ian Goodall

Wind Tunnel in UOIT ACE Building, photo by Tom Arban

This video provides a tour of the Wind Tunnel and other parts of the new facility:

Now that we've covered the interior of the building, let's look at the exterior.

The brick masonry and metal panels of ACE blend in with the other buildings on campus, all designed by D+S. 

Front of the UOIT ACE Building, photo by Tom Arban

While the building is certainly institutional, the brick along the front that frames the large classroom and office windows gives it warmth. 

Along the back side, the building keeps its institutional look but employs a variety of materials to add texture.

Back of the UOIT ACE Building, photo by Tom Arban

A storm water management pond sits adjacent to the waterside walkway, which helps connect the building to the rest of the campus.

Back walkway of the UOIT ACE Building, photo by Tom Arban

For a more detailed look at Diamond + Schmitt's master plan for, and architecture at the UOIT Campus, visit their site.