Description:
The Centre for Urban Ecology provides educational opportunities in horticulture and environmental stewardship and promotes the advancement of technology in the service if the preservation of the natural world.
The architectural goal of the project was to create a modern building signaling a change in values with respect to the sustainable development and energy conservation, using materials and forms that would communicate architectural and engineering ideas to a wide range of visitors – in essence, creating a living laboratory. [1]
Completed in 2007, this striking two-storey glass building is home to the Humber Arboretum’s educational programs and special events. On the lower level, educational displays and materials encourage kids to explore the habitats which can be found right outside the door. [2]
The plan of the building is organized according to the students’ arrival and the sequence of the teaching program. It provides environmental education to primary, secondary, college and university students, and promotes the advancement of environmental technology in service of the preservation of the natural world. There is an upper orientation classroom and a lower working project room that breaks out into the outdoor classroom. [3]
Where Learning is Natural
From programs to connect children with the natural world to opportunities for Humber College students to practice their skills, education is part of the foundation of the Humber Arboretum. [4]
School Programs
Give your students the chance to take their learning outside with the Humber Arboretum’s curriculum-connected outdoor education programs. We offer active and engaging half-day and full-day programs that allow children to connect with nature and the environment without ever leaving the city. [5]
Adult Programs
Whether you want to become a better gardener, have a more sustainable home and lifestyle, get the skills to be an environmental educator, or start your own urban apiary, the Humber Arboretum’s workshops and programs have you covered. Many of our community workshops are free; other programs can help enhance your career. [6]
On Social Media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HumberArb/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humberarb/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HumberArb
References
[1] Jen, Leslie. “Everything’s Gone Green.” Canadian Architect, January 2008.
[2] Arboretum, Humber. Centre for Urban Ecology. Accessed December 31, 2020. https://humber.ca/arboretum/explore/centre-for-urban-ecology.html.
[3] “Humber Arboretum Centre for Urban Ecology.” Taylor Hazell Architects, April 19, 2016. http://www.taylorhazell.com/portfolio/humber-arboretum-centre/.
[4] Arboretum, Humber. “Where Learning Is Natural.” Learn. Accessed December 31, 2020. https://humber.ca/arboretum/learn.html.
[5] Arboretum, Humber. School Programs. Accessed December 31, 2020. https://humber.ca/arboretum/learn/school-programs.html.
[6] Arboretum, Humber. Adult Programs. Accessed December 31, 2020. https://humber.ca/arboretum/learn/adult-programs.html.
Project Title: Humber Arboretum Center for Urban Ecology
Artists: Taylor Hazell Architects
Year: 2007
Place: Toronto, ON
