Department of French Studies, York University

The Department of French Studies in York University’s Ross North Building is home to spaces where students connect, collaborate, and explore francophone culture as part of their daily campus life.

GEC revitalized underused space within the faculty into an inclusive, functional environment that shows the department’s identity through cultural details and design. Open gathering areas, flexible study spaces, and cultural elements bring people together and celebrate the department’s identity.

Before the renovation, the reception was hidden behind a narrow corridor, and the meeting rooms were awkward to use. The space felt disconnected from campus life. Working closely with the department, GEC redesigned the layout to bring the reception forward and create open areas where students can meet, study, and work together. Clear sightlines and simple wayfinding make the space easy to navigate, while shared lounges invite people to connect naturally.

Students gather in the shared lounge to study, talk, and engage with francophone culture. Flexible seating, group spaces, and cultural motifs throughout the building allow collaboration while reflecting the department’s identity.

The Ross Building now provides a setting where students can connect, learn, and explore francophone culture as part of their daily campus life. It is a space that feels welcoming, functional, and aligned with the needs of the community at the heart of York University.