September 18, 2025

The ARIDO Awards are among the most prestigious honours in the interior design community. These awards celebrate projects that demonstrate excellence in thoughtful planning, from initial concept to the final details that define a space. The awards also recognize projects that embody principles of equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion, reflecting the core values of contemporary design.

Named a 2025 ARIDO Awards winner, York University Markham Campus responds to the university’s vision for an accessible, connected, and impactful academic environment. Envisioned as a community hub, collaboration, innovation, accessibility, and inclusivity are placed at the forefront of its design. 

Organized as a vertical campus, the programming and interior layout accommodate student services at grade level, offer a welcoming and accessible entry, and maximize natural light throughout. Its architectural form animated by cantilevers and curves both inside and out creates fluid, interactive spaces that reinforce the diversity of academic programs, teaching approaches, and research that takes place within.

Highly flexible teaching and learning environments span ten floors, anchored by a vibrant interconnected multi-storey atrium. This central space acts as a social and academic crossroads, highlighted by a ribbon-like staircase that fosters continuity, fluidity, and a guiding sensory experience for students, staff, and visitors alike.

Throughout the interior, a series of vertical academic “neighbourhoods” are identified through changes in flooring, wall and ceiling material, textures, colours, and furniture types—giving each area a unique identity while contributing to the overall cohesiveness of the space.

The York University’s Markham campus fosters a sense of community among students, faculty, and visitors, playing a pivotal role in enhancing the social fabric of the campus.

Winners will be announced at the ARIDO Awards Gala on September 17th, 2025.

View the 2025 ARIDO Award winners here.