WP Thompson Building Renovation
A campus renewal that transforms existing structure into flexible, modern learning spaces.
Client: University of Saskatchewan
Location: Saskatoon, SK
Project Type: Buildings
About This Project
The WP Thompson Building is a long-standing academic facility on the University of Saskatchewan campus, serving generations of students and faculty. To support evolving teaching and research needs, the University undertook a complex renewal of the building to create modern, flexible learning environments while preserving its connection to the campus fabric.
ISL provided structural engineering services for this phased renovation, which included upgrades to the West Wing and a complete reconstruction of the East Wing. Early in design, it became clear that the existing 1960s steel structure in the East Wing offered limited flexibility, with tight column spacing, low floor heights, and insufficient capacity for modern teaching spaces. Rather than pursuing full demolition, ISL worked closely with the project team to assess existing conditions and develop an adaptive reuse strategy.
Through detailed analysis and field investigations, ISL identified opportunities to retain the existing foundations, basement, and main floor while removing the upper steel structure. This approach enabled the construction of a new two-storey superstructure with open grids and higher ceilings, delivering significant cost savings while reducing material waste and environmental impact. The renewed structure also integrates with adjacent campus buildings and supports specialized laboratory spaces, including phytotron facilities for the Department of Biology.
Careful coordination and construction sequencing allowed the surrounding campus to remain operational and safe throughout the project. By balancing preservation with transformation, ISL helped deliver a modern academic facility that supports collaboration, research, and learning, while extending the life of existing infrastructure for years to come.