Ontario Hall, Western University’s student residence, opened in 2013 as a striking six storey complex hosting around 1,000 students in a mix of single, double, and four bedroom hybrid suites. Designed by architects Tillmann Ruth Robinson, the building artfully threads contemporary design into Western’s traditional campus fabric while earning LEED Silver certification for sustainability.

Architecturally, the residence is organized as three distinct wings that converge on a central village of shared spaces—featuring large floor to ceiling windows that flood lounges and study areas with natural light and visually connect interior life with the outdoors. A multi level courtyard, framed by glazed corridors, fosters informal interaction, connecting the second floor dining hall and academic café with communal areas below.

The material palette balances robust concrete and brick with expansive glazing, while vertical glass-stair towers punctuate the facade and act as light-filled markers at key intersections. From the street, visitors enter at the third floor lobby, creating a welcoming, elevated arrival sequence that opens onto sweeping views of the green courtyard beyond.