Julia-Jane Johnson

Julia-Jane is an aspiring interior designer, interested in entering the commercial design sector after graduating from Humber College. Her thesis was inspired by the Agora school in the Netherlands, designed to foster creativity and encourage students to explore their learning interests. This project aims to create a hub for the homeschooling community to connect and provide access to resources.

Contact

johnsonjuliajane@gmail.com Share This Page

Project Overview

Alton Mill, a Heritage building built in 1881 as a woollen mill in Caledon Township, underwent restoration in the 1990s. Repurposed into an arts and cultural center in 2009, solidifying it as a cultural and historic landmark. Preserving its stone facade and vaulted ceilings, it now hosts original features and machinery. The building will transform into a resource center for Homeschoolers, ages 12-18, fostering creativity and well-being through Learner-Centred design and place attachment theory. This center is more than just a place of learning but a vibrant community hub, offering socialization, enrichment, and support, where bonds are forged, minds are enriched, and futures are shaped.

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Exploded diagram

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Circulation diagram

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Site plan

Concept/Design Process

The design of this educational oasis is a harmonious fusion of the Alton Mill's natural surroundings and rich historic features, seamlessly integrated with modern construction techniques. Biophilic design and biomimicry principles infuse the space to make a warm and welcoming environment that nurtures both the mind and spirit.

The colour palette draws from the beauty of nature, invoking feelings of tranquillity and connection, with its calming hues of green, blue, orange, earth tones, and wood elements. Every element, from the furnishings to the decor, has been carefully selected to evoke a sense of harmony and inspiration.

Site Plan/Floor Plan(s)

Alton Mill has three stories with the main entrance on the main level. Each level is dedicated to different activities. The main level has a cafe, campus store and cafeteria. The upper level has creative spaces, workspaces, a library and an event space. The lower level has a recreation space, a music room, and a fitness room. The courtyard is accessible through both the main level and the lower level.

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Main Level

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Upper Level

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Lower Level

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Site Section - Front view

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Site Section - Back view

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Longitudinal Section

Sections/Elevations

The site sections show a front and back view of the building accompanied by a section through the building illustrating the stone facade, pine floors, vaulted ceilings and exposed timber posts and beams that were preserved in the renovation.

The entrance was remodelled, centring the door and large window on the front of the mill tower. Narrow floor-to-ceiling windows were added to the sides of the tower and behind the stairs at the back of the building. A glass box was added to connect these two spaces, to make it accessible from the main level.

3D Views

The 3D views provide insight into important spaces in the project. The lobby on the main level shows a view of the open stairs and reception desk encompassed by wooden slats integrated into the post and beam system. The library on the upper level shows a variation of focused and collaborative workspaces. The recreation space on the lower level provides insight into this area with its open layout, low ceiling and access to the courtyard.