In recent years, Toronto has experienced a growing demand for on-campus student housing due to high population influx and rising rental prices. In 2020, CCO, in collaboration with Montgomery Sisam Architects in Toronto, won a competition to design a six-story, 10,800-square-meter building to house 400 students. In addition to accommodating students, CCO focused on promoting social interactions and strengthening the sense of belonging in the building’s design. The aim is to contribute to residents' well-being and overall academic success.

CCO’s international portfolio and unique expertise in designing innovative learning environments  with a human-centred approach were key factors in securing the project at the University of Toronto. In addition to spaces for social interactions, the new building is designed to optimize natural light and include sustainable solutions such as solar panels, smart lighting, efficient water fixtures, and a focus on material preservation, acoustics, and indoor climate.

The project is expected to be completed in 2026 and will enable the university to offer housing to first-year students, where demand for student accommodation has traditionally exceeded supply.

According to CCO, the Trade Council played an active role in the company's establishment in the Canadian market by facilitating the initial contact between the company and the University of Toronto back in 2019.

In addition to facilitating meetings, the Trade Council provided valuable insights into local housing needs and demand and opened doors to relevant stakeholders. These insights helped CCO adapt their design to Canadian standards and norms, creating a solid foundation for the company's success.

Canadian universities are increasingly prioritizing green transition and investing in sustainable buildings - an area where Danish companies excel. The universities particularly focus on climate goals, CO2 reduction, energy efficiency, and human-centred design.

Through years of presence in Canada, the Trade Council has built close connections with several significant Canadian educational institutions. These relationships and the demand for green solutions have helped open doors for CCO and other Danish companies, says Ailish Dunn, Junior Commercial Advisor at the Trade Council in Toronto:

According to CCO Architecture, the company aims to continue expanding its work within student housing, learning facilities and faculty offices in Canada. Their continued collaboration with the Trade Council has included market- and sector analyses, as well as business development strategies focused on sustainable student housing and university campuses in Ontario. This has led to market visits to over 15 educational institutions in Ontario and new business opportunities for the Danish architecture firm.