Case Study: University of Toronto Scarborough creates inclusive Indigenous House with Thornton Tomasetti acoustic and vibration control expertise

University of Toronto Scarborough’s 10,000 ft² Indigenous House with Thornton Tomasetti

The University of Toronto Scarborough required acoustic, noise, and vibration control services for its new Indigenous House, a two-story academic and social facility inspired by traditional wigwam structures. The project's design featured naturally reflective wood and concrete finishes, which presented a challenge for creating balanced acoustics in its gathering and office spaces. Thornton Tomasetti was engaged by Formline Architecture to provide these specialized services.

Thornton Tomasetti implemented a solution that included detailed room acoustics, sound separation, and mechanical noise and vibration control. Special considerations were made for the gathering space to balance the reflective finishes with absorptive treatments, and additional details were incorporated to minimize noise transfer in the naturally ventilated building. The successful collaboration resulted in a facility that creates inclusive spaces for students and faculty, which has since received an Award of Merit from Canadian Architect.

University of Toronto Scarborough