Waterloo selects Prime Consultant for new Campus Plan
The University of Waterloo has partnered with design firm Brook McIlroy to update its Campus Plan. The Plan serves as a roadmap for UWaterloo’s built environment, guiding the replacement of aging infrastructure and ensuring that adaptation of spaces is done resourcefully and meets the changing needs of our students and community.
Brook McIlroy is an award-winning design firm specializing in planning, architecture, interior design, urban design, and landscape architecture. Renowned across Canada, the firm creates sustainable, inclusive, and student-centered spaces through an integrated approach to design. Their approach is to craft “whole environments” that are durable, functional, and reflective of diverse community needs.
“We recognize the importance of working with an experienced firm like Brook McIlroy on this initiative,” said Jacinda Reitsma, Vice-President, Administration and Finance at UWaterloo. “In light of our fiscal challenges, the Campus Plan is a necessary step in addressing critical infrastructure needs to ensure our resources are used strategically for the future. Their skill in gathering, analyzing, and applying input from subject matter experts is especially vital as we chart a path forward.”
Selected through a rigorous Request for Proposal (RFP) process, Brook McIlroy’s expertise stood out for its proven track record in addressing post-secondary priorities like sustainability, accessibility, and innovation.
To ensure the Campus Plan fully harnesses the subject matter expertise across disciplines, Brook McIlroy will engage students, faculty, and staff through workshops, surveys, and open houses. This inclusive process will prioritize the diverse knowledge and insights of the UWaterloo community, shaping a plan that addresses the University’s current priorities while aligning with its long-term aspirations.
A highlight of their proposal is the Indigenous Design Studio, an internal team of six Indigenous designers. The firm’s contributions to UWaterloo include the Indigenous Gathering Space on BMH Green, Long House Labs, and the Indigenous Relations office suite, meaningful additions that foster connection, cultural awareness, and learning.
"Brook McIlroy is committed to supporting the University of Waterloo on this essential initiative,” said Anne McIlroy, Principal, Brook McIlroy. “Our extensive work with post-secondary institutions across Canada has demonstrated the value of thoughtful and strategic campus planning. By prioritizing sustainability, accessibility, and cultural inclusivity, we are committed to addressing UWaterloo’s critical needs while creating a campus that reflects the University’s values and its long-term vision.”