Major Modernization Underway at SSR

July 9, 2013 – A residence complex that has housed “generations of undergraduates” at Laurentian University is undergoing a thorough modernization with a $5.9M renovation program.  

Built in 1973, the Single Students’ Residence (SSR) accommodates close to 400 students every year.  Alongside the Mature Students’ Residence, SSR was one of the earliest residences built on the Laurentian campus.

“This residence complex is so important to our on-campus population, and it’s time for a comprehensive facelift for SSR,” said the University’s Director of Capital Projects, Brad Parkes.  “We are making the building more energy-efficient and making some structural improvements, as well as updating the interiors,” said Parkes. 

The renovations will include fresh exterior cladding and the replacement of insulation and windows throughout the complex. The structure comprises three inter-connected sections of four stories each, with a total of 72 apartment-style units containing single and double rooms and common areas.  The improvements will be carried out in stages, so that only part of the structure is under renovation at a given time.  During each 8-month stage of improvements, students affected by the renovation will be given housing in other accommodation.

“As the work is happening in pre-planned stages, we’re able to ensure that everyone affected by this has suitable accommodation during renovations,” said Director of Housing and Food Services, Ben Demianiuk.

As well as the improvements to the structure, changes at SSR will include new furnishings and a “style makeover,” said Demianiuk.  “We want the student spaces to meet current needs, in terms of design and function, and all suites are being re-done in contemporary colours.  It’ll be spruced up, inside and out, with a more inviting and comfortable feel,” he added.  Beds, desks, dressers, chairs and kitchen sets will also be replaced as part of the modernization. 

Laurentian and its federated universities currently house approximately 1,600 students in a total of 8 campus residences.  The newest, the 12-storey East Residence, opened last summer.

About Laurentian University

Laurentian University is one of the fastest growing universities in Canada in the past decade, now serving close to 10,000 students. With its main campus in Sudbury, it now offers a growing number of programs in Barrie to the 1,200 students located on that campus. Laurentian has the highest post-graduation employment rates in Ontario after 6 months at 92% and 95% after two years. The University receives high recognition for its enviable class sizes, having one of the lowest average class sizes in Canada.

For more information on Laurentian University visit www.laurentian.ca

MEDIA CONTACTS

For further information or to schedule an interview, please contact:

Joanne Musico                                                                          

Manager, Communications                                                         

Tel: 705-675-1151 ext. 3445 or 1.800.263.4188 ext.3445              

jmusico@laurentian.ca                                                               

Sherry Drysdale, Communications

Tel: 705-675-1151 ext. 3412

Cellular: 705-698-4702

sdrysdale@laurentian.ca