King’s University College is pleased to announce the start of construction on the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre. K & L Construction (Ont.) Ltd. will begin site preparation this week on the $14.7 project that is slated for completion in the summer of 2013.
The construction of the King Student Life Centre is estimated to create close to 110 direct construction jobs, representing over $4 million in income generated in the city according to the London Economic Development Corporation. An additional 90 indirect jobs can be expected from this construction.
The Darryl J. King Student Life Centre will be a 40,000 sq. ft. facility that will serve as the social and intellectual hub of the King’s community. The Centre is designed as a space for students and faculty to gather, learn and connect, and will integrate a learning commons, student services, as well as social, spiritual and recreational spaces.
Designed by Perkins + Will in cooperation with London-based Cornerstone Architecture, the facility will meet LEED certification standards, will connect to the Cardinal Carter Library and will include the following amenities:
- The Joanne and Peter Kenny Theatre (490 seats and home to the King’s Players)
- The Andy and Helen Spriet Learning Commons
- The Joan Smith Student Leadership Suite (home to the King’s University College Students’ Council)
- Many green elements including outdoor patios, garden areas and a green roof
- The King’s Connection Store
- Casual Spaces for students and faculty to gather (including games mezzanine, fitness centre, breakout rooms, and a café)
“This is an exciting project for the King’s University community and for London itself,” notes Dr. David Sylvester, Principal of King’s. “King’s is nationally-known for educating ethical leaders for tomorrow. This new facility is a commitment to our students who are the heart and soul of King’s. King’s is also an important part of the economic landscape of our city, employing over 250 faculty and staff. I am proud that this project will generate jobs and income for our city and create new gathering space for the north London community.”
The King Centre is named after Darryl J. King (BA ’97 History), President of Cambridge-based Logikor Inc., in recognition of his $1 million gift; the largest donation ever made by a King’s alumni. The cost of the King Centre is an estimated $14.7 million, with $9 million to be raised through philanthropic support (which already includes a $2.4 million contribution by the student community).
For more information contact:
Matt Quin, Manager-Communications and Media Relations
King’s University College
226-236-1846, mquin@uwo.ca
