Sherman Health Science Research Centre

The Sherman Health Sciences Research Centre at York University significantly enhances research capabilities and staff retention. It's ingeniously located within a disused ice-rink (arena) on York's Keele Campus, spanning 50,000 square feet with an $11 million budget. The purpose-driven conversion expands laboratories for Vision Research, Health Sciences, and Kinesiology, featuring specialized areas for brain imaging, virtual reality, visual-motor assessment, infant visual development, health promotion, and neuroscience research. While LEED certification isn't pursued, sustainability principles are integrated into the design.

The layout centers around a two-story internal street illuminated by skylights and new windows. A second-floor addition expands research space by over 18,000 square feet. A distinctive black-clad wall connects entrances and defines faculty office space, acting as a reflective surface for temperature regulation. A high albedo white roof membrane minimizes heat gain and island effects.

Research zones north of faculty offices include double-height spaces for equipment, visible from an upper-level meeting room. Research areas are separated by a circulation corridor for environmental isolation and controlled lighting. Mechanical and electrical systems located in a two-story northern section with vents oriented far away from campus view.