5th Floor Roof Community Garden & IEN Social and Cultural Practice Space

Rendering of terrace; two people showing others plantings from the garden
5th Floor Roof Community Garden & IEN Social and Cultural Practice Space

OISE is reimagining the under-utilized 5th floor outdoor terraces at the podium level to create a dedicated space for community gatherings, cultural practice, study, and social events. The project underwent broad consultation within the OISE community and the design will incorporate the latest standards of accessibility and sustainability.

This is an image of the IEN Social & Cultural Practice Space (South Terrace) looking East. There are individuals sitting in an open-air space with colourful flowers
A rendering of a light, bright, and airy terrace with lots of greenery and people enjoying the space.
Inside

South Terrace

The South Terrace will be home to the Indigenous Education Network (IEN) Social & Cultural Practice Space which will include a ceremonial meeting place for outdoor teaching and gathering, a fire pit area, and a medicine garden with a harvesting table. This garden will serve as a teaching tool for Indigenous students and will be used by faculty and staff alike.  

West Terrace

The West Terrace will be a place for large gatherings, informal study, meeting, and community events. There will be patio areas with a variety of bench seating, table seating, shade features and garden areas with a selection of plantings to create a green oasis accessible to the community.

Interior Lounge

Adjacent to the roof garden terrace, the interior lounge in Room 5-220 will be a flexible space with areas for studying, relaxation, socializing, and special events. The lounge will feature chairs and casual table seating.

October 2025 Progress Update and Schedule

Photo of roof garden progress- construction site facing west
Roof Garden Construction site looking south. Colourful design.
Different angle of roof garden construction site
Photo of construction site looking south

Current Status

Construction Underway

Projected Construction End Date

End of 2025

Projected Open Date

Spring 2026

Contact Us

Have questions or comments about this project? Please contact us at oisecao@utoronto.ca.