MacEwan University has expanded its physical presence with their Centre for Arts and Culture, and with the downtown campus continuing to grow its student base and programs, the demand for additional space has never been more acute. In response to this pressing reality, The Students' Association of MacEwan University (SAMU) has launched a plan to create a new hub for students

The proposed location of the building is highlighted, image via MacEwan University

To be located along 109 Street, between 104 and 105 Avenue, the building will be connected to the rest of the campus through the existing pedway running through the adjacent Christenson Family Centre for Sport and Wellness. Though no renderings of the facility have been released, student feedback and conceptual images paint a picture of what users can expect in the near future. 

Airy spaces allow for improved circulation, image via MacEwan University

Spaces for clubs, meeting rooms, and the purchasing of local and fresh food is envisioned, along with electrical outlets for laptops and a mix of collaborative, quiet, and silent study areas. A dedicated event space for use by clients, clubs, and student initiatives has also been proposed, with the space becoming a study nook when not reserved.

An abundance of windows and moveable partitions are envisioned, image via MacEwan University

The SAM Centre — MacEwan's central resource for student passes, discounted movie tickets, sports tickets, and West Edmonton Mall passes — will make the move into the new building. SAMU has also indicated their intention to relocate here when the building is completed, which could be as soon as 2018. 

An example of what the food court may look like, image via MacEwan University

A development application for the Stantec-designed project was submitted in mid-January, with the proposal scheduled to face scrutiny from the Edmonton Design Committee on February 7. 

Additional images and information can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion or share your photos? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.