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Chloe Ledo

My name is Chloe Ledo, and I am a fourth-year Bachelor of Interior Design student at Humber College, with a Design Foundations certificate. Since I was young, Interior Design has been a love of mine since it enables me to express my creativity and imagination in a practical and functional way. To me, Interior Design means sculpting spaces that exude beauty while promoting well-being, guaranteeing every environment delivers a holistic experience that deeply connects with its inhabitants.

Project Overview

Welcome to the Freshman Hub, an exclusive community centre tailored for first-year students, curated by the Association of Community Centres (AOCCS). Our mission is to revolutionize the college experience by pooling resources and support systems. We are dedicated to enhancing academic success, reducing stress, and fostering a sense of belonging. At the heart of our community centre lies the commitment to bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds, promoting interaction and harmony. Our primary objectives include prioritizing student well-being, offering comprehensive support services, implementing effective stress reduction strategies, and fostering inclusive student engagement.

Drawing of the Parti Diagram Inspired by Concept and Balance

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Parti Diagram Inspired by Concept and Balance

Concept/Design Process

The design of the community centre is grounded in the concept of Balance and Community, offering an adaptable environment that effortlessly accommodates the evolving needs and preferences of first-year students. This balanced design encourages comfort and inclusion, creating a welcoming environment for all and reflecting the dynamics of a cohesive community.

The centre's emphasis on balance symbolizes students' growth and adaptability in their transition to post-secondary education, highlighting the importance of equilibrium in their academic and personal pursuits. At this crucial stage in their lives, balance provides a stable foundation that supports their development, fostering mutual support and cooperation among students. Through a thoughtful fusion of community and balance, the centre cultivates social interaction, academic excellence, and personal growth, empowering students to thrive in a supportive atmosphere where everyone contributes to the collective well-being.

Site Plan/Floor Plan(s)

This floor plan draws inspiration from the parti-diagram, featuring a harmonious arrangement of adjacent spaces housing less critical rooms, with a central lounge acting as the central hub. This hub serves as the heart of connectivity and community, seamlessly linking the two floors with the open mezzanine.

Each room has been meticulously chosen based on extensive research, including surveys among first-year and post-secondary students. This centre encompasses all the essentials students require under one roof, supporting not only their academic endeavours but also fostering social and mental well-being.

Drawing of the Main Floor

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Main Floor

Drawing of the Top Floor

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Top Floor

Render of the Side Section

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Section

Sections/Elevations

This section highlights the central attraction of the building: a captivating waterfall and plant wall that grace both floors. Nestled within the lounge at the heart of the structure, it offers a visual treat from multiple vantage points, seamlessly integrating biophilic design principles known for their stress-reducing benefits. The double-sided waterfall greets visitors upon entry, welcoming them with its serene presence on the reception side of the community centre.

3D Views

With a sophisticated, earthy-toned colour scheme, this community centre strives to immerse visitors in a serene and tranquil ambiance, fostering a sense of calmness and equilibrium. By creating such an environment, the aim is to alleviate stress and empower individuals to pursue their aspirations with clarity and focus.

3D render of the Lounge

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Lounge

3D render of the Rentable Workspaces

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Rentable Workspaces

3D render of the Co-Working Space

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Co-Working Space

Video showing 3D renders, floor plans and conceptual sketches of Freshman Hub Community Centre

This video provides a comprehensive walk-through of the entire community centre.

Video

Step into the Freshman Hub, where tranquility meets inspiration. Experience a space meticulously crafted to ease your stress, fuel your academic endeavours, and ignite your potential for success. Here, find not just a building, but a nurturing environment that fosters belonging and cultivates community, creating harmony and balance in every step of your journey.

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