78 College Residence Development
A Bold Vision for Student Success
Welcome to 78 College, the University of Guelph’s newest purpose-built residence community. Opening in Fall 2029, this transformative project will expand on‑campus housing, strengthen student success, and set a new benchmark for sustainable, community-centred student living. It’s more than a residence - it’s a bold investment in the future of our campus for our students.
The University of Guelph has experienced years of strong enrolment growth, fueling demand for high‑quality, community‑oriented housing. Designed to foster belonging, academic success, and well‑being from day one, the residence acts as both a beacon and a bridge, linking historic areas of campus with new growth, and welcoming students into a vibrant, supportive environment.
A Residence Designed for the Next Generation of Gryphons
The 78 College Residence is more than additional beds - it is an ambitious re‑imagining of what it means to live and learn at the University of Guelph. From its sustainability features to its vibrant community spaces, advanced food service model, and student‑centred design, it embodies the University’s commitment Improving Life by creating a welcoming, inclusive, and future‑ready campus.
Project at a Glance
- 1,250 Beds
- Purpose-built to support first-year students with modern single, semi-single and semi-double suites.
- 500 Seat Dining Hall
- Designed to reflect the University of Guelph’s reputation as Canada’s Food University through high‑quality food experiences and student engagement.
- Barrier Free, Accessible Design
- Including 16% barrier-free units and 100% barrier free building access
- Study & Community Spaces on Every Floor
- Lounges, study rooms, multi purpose spaces, and music practice rooms integrated throughout.
- Zero Carbon Aligned Design
- Built to CaGBC Zero Carbon Building principles with high efficiency systems and smart lighting.
- Two Outdoor Courtyards
- A vibrant community courtyard plus a sheltered winter garden for year round use.
Architectural Vision
Student rooms are designed as “personal sanctuaries”- comfortable, calming, and empowering environments that help students transition smoothly into university life. Each space focuses on natural light, comfort, privacy, and mental well‑being.
Building Form
- A six‑storey north quad and seven‑storey south quad, together totalling approximately 370,000 sq. ft.
- Integrated study spaces, common kitchens, lounges, and community floors
- Landscaped pedestrian‑friendly outdoor spaces
Location
- Southwest corner of College & McGilvray
- A key gateway site that strengthens connections to West Village Residence and west‑end campus life
- Direct access to transit, cycling routes, pedestrian paths
Sustainability & Zero Carbon Leadership
The residence embraces the University’s commitment to a low‑carbon, climate‑resilient future
- Zero Carbon Building principles
- Aligns with the Canada Green Building Council’s Zero Carbon Building framework.
- 25% energy use reduction
- Targets NECB Tier 2 performance, exceeding base energy code by 25%.
- Low impact design
- Landscaping prioritizes rainwater infiltration, and native trees and pollinator plantings.
- Smart building controls
- Automated ventilation, climate control, occupancy‑based lighting optimize efficiency, and 95 - 99% efficient mechanical systems.
- Low‑flow water & efficient kitchens
- Water‑saving fixtures and sustainable kitchen systems lower consumption.
- Bird-friendly design
- Fritted and low-glare windows create visual barriers to reduce collisions while bird-friendly plantings enhance habitat and food sources.
Project Timeline
| Milestone | Date |
| Housing Demand Study Completed | 2022 - 2023 |
| Housing Demand Study Updated | 2024 |
| Real Estate Land Use Vision Strategy Completed | 2023 - 2025 |
| Concept Plan Completed | 2024 |
| Schematic Design | January 2025 |
| Revised Schematic Design | 2026 |
| Construction Begins | Late 2026 |
| Opening / Students Move In | September 2029 |
