University of Toronto Scarborough Indigenous House

Project overview

Following consultation with Indigenous communities and stakeholders, the University of Toronto is advancing the construction of a landmark facility at its Scarborough campus—a dedicated space for the celebration, preservation, and sharing of Indigenous culture. Inspired by the traditional form of a wigwam, the new Indigenous House will serve as a visible symbol of Indigenous presence and identity on campus.

Partially embedded into the landscape, the design embraces Indigenous values of sustainability, connection to land, and cultural continuity. The facility will support the revitalization of endangered Indigenous languages, promote intercultural learning, and provide space for teaching, ceremony, research, and reflection. Open to Indigenous and non-Indigenous members of the campus community, the building is intended to foster dialogue, healing, and shared understanding.

With panoramic views of the surrounding ravines, the 1,250 m², two-storey structure will be a place of both community and scholarship, exemplifying principles of reconciliation and educational inclusion.