Campus revitalization
A reimagined student centre takes shape in the heart of Queen’s campus
February 13, 2024
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As part of the revitalization, updated designs allow more natural light into the common spaces at the heart of the JDUC, including the Ceilidh area. (Queen's University)
For nearly 100 years, the building at the corner of Union Street and University Avenue has been the heart of student life at Queen’s. Affectionately known as the JDUC, a new revitalization project will ensure that the John Deutsch University Centre will be a fully-accessible, vibrant, and sustainable home for the students of today and tomorrow.
Now 75 per cent complete, the redevelopment of the 93,500-square-foot interior space – half new and half renovation – is on schedule to welcome back students for the 2024-25 academic year.
The revitalization of the 93,500-square-foot interior space – half new and half renovation – is on schedule to welcome back students for the 2024-25 academic year.
The structure, seamlessly integrating modern design with classic Queen’s style, fits the mold of the university’s newest buildings.
The expanded entrance wing adds space for students to gather, socialize, learn, and relax and repositions the space as a new main entrance to campus. Updated designs allow more natural light into the common spaces at the heart of the JDUC, including a spacious amphitheatre-style stair area connecting the second and third floors.
The new design allows more natural light into the common spaces at the heart of the JDUC. (Queen's University)
The JDUC will feature new public study spaces, secure and discreet wellness spaces, a larger pub with an outdoor patio along University Avenue, an expanded The Brew coffee house, and Tricolour Outlet. At the same time, the university is renovating 90 residence rooms located within the JDUC.
Accessibility has been a priority throughout the design and construction process with at-grade entrances at all entry points, more elevators, and full, barrier-free accessibility in all parts of the building, including its historic spaces. The shipping and receiving area will be moved underground, with the old loading dock replaced by an accessible outdoor plaza.
Rendering of the revitalized John Deutsch University Centre (JDUC), at the north entrance along University Avenue.
Students are contributing the majority of the capital funding for the renovation project, through student levies over 25 years. Queen’s is providing project financing and supporting the project through an $11.8 million contribution that includes $10 million being raised through philanthropic gifts.
Stay up to date on the revitalization project by visiting the Facilities webpage and find out more through the AMS website.
