October 16, 2025

Carleton University celebrates the grand opening of its new student residence. Built in response to the growing demand for on-campus housing, Rideau House aims to provide a student-focused environment that fosters community, collaboration, and personal growth.

Designed with students at the centre, the building offers 450 beds in single and double rooms, along with a range of amenities including study spaces, a multi-faith room, a community kitchen, a half-court gym, and bike storage.

Rideau House serves as a link between student life and the general public by providing a welcoming and engaging ground floor for the whole campus. This floor promotes a sense of community and engagement, featuring column-free spaces with diversely programmed activities along its edges. An interior glazed corridor will draw students to gather, exchange ideas, connect and celebrate. Vertically, a series of glazed lounges broadcast student life outward, creating a “lantern effect” visible from the city, especially at night. 

Following Carleton’s design intentions for the future, the residence provides an equitable and sustainably responsible living environment. Designed with Passive House Design principles, the building targets reduced energy and heating demand. 

The stepped massing around a central courtyard ensures the residence integrates with surrounding campus buildings, promoting openness and accessibility.