University of Toronto — Sidney Smith Hall

A two-phase addition and renovation project at the University of Toronto’s Sidney Smith Hall, the work totalled 35,000 sq. ft. across two distinct scopes. The first phase involved removing the roof slab of an existing one-storey infill to accommodate a new two-storey, 25,000 sq. ft. addition, alongside renovations to the existing first floor to deliver new administration offices. The second phase enclosed an existing canopied patio to create an additional 10,000 sq. ft. of student study space, featuring glass on three sides and complete interior finishes throughout. Extensive asbestos removal was carried out within occupied areas as part of the enclosure work. Both phases were constructed while the building remained in active daily use, requiring careful site management to protect students, staff, and the surrounding campus environment throughout.

J.J. McGuire was engaged to deliver both phases of the project, coordinating demolition, structural work, asbestos abatement, and interior finishing trades within the constraints of a continuously occupied academic facility at one of Canada’s leading universities.