The University of Toronto is in the process of expanding its Faculty of Law with a new modern structure, while restoring the attached neoclassical 1902 Flavelle House, which has been part of the university since 1939. Located northwest of Queens Park, the $37.5 million Jackman Law Building expansion will add 66,000 square feet of new space to the Faculty, modernizing the facility and adding even more architectural flair to what is already an impressive and varied collection of architecture in the area.

Northwest facing view of the Jackman Law Expansion, image by Camil Rosiak

Designed by Hariri Pontarini Architects and B+H Architects, the building features a prominent curve on its southeast side which hugs Queens Park Crescent. This facade, which will be seen by many headed southbound on Queens Park Crescent, is in the process of being fitted with brise soleils—or sun shades. These vertical elements will prevent excess sunlight from pouring into the building from the south, making it easier to keep the building cool in the summer.

Brise soleils at the Jackman Law Expansion, image by Camil Rosiak

Brise soleil installation at the Jackman Law Expansion, image by Camil Rosiak

Elsewhere in the building, work is under way on the installation of mechanical systems such as boilers, chillers, and ducting, as well as the installation of electrical systems like transformers, circuits, and switches. Over the next few months, work will also move forward on interior details like plaster, painting, millwork and furniture installation.

As work approaches its targeted Spring/Summer 2016 completion, the final stages of construction will involve finishing touches like landscaping work, which will be followed by move-ins and deficiency repairs.

Northeast facing view of the Jackman Law Expansion, image by Camil Rosiak

Named in honour of an $11 million donation from former Lieutenant Governor of Ontario Henry N.R. "Hal" Jackman, the completed project will bring with it a new 210-student lecture hall, as well as seminar halls, a student lounge, faculty and staff offices and a new food services outlet. 

Rendering of the Jackman Law Expansion, image courtesy of the University of Toronto

You can follow along with the construction process by checking out the project's live webcam, linked here. We will continue to keep you up-to-date, but in the meantime to get more information and view renderings visit our dataBase file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion? Check out the associated Forum thread, or leave a comment in the space provided at the bottom of this page.