Hart House Theatre Redesign

Team Lead


Completed as part of the Engineering Strategies & Practice I course at the University of Toronto, this project focused on improving accessibility at the historic Hart House Theatre. As Team Lead, I guided a team of six in developing inclusive design solutions through CAD modeling and collaboration with designers and accessibility experts. Our proposed redesign, which included new accessible entrances and a stage lift, improved accessibility while preserving the theatre’s architectural integrity and received a 95% satisfaction rate from users during feedback testing.

Problem Definiton

The Hart House Theatre at the University of Toronto faced major accessibility challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. Steep aisles, inadequate wheelchair seating, and limited stage access made it difficult for all guests to navigate and participate fully. The client, David Kim, requested solutions that would enhance accessibility while preserving the theatre’s historic character. The project focused on improving aisle design, seating layout, and stage access to create a safer and more inclusive environment for all users.

Design Solutions

To address the accessibility challenges within the Hart House Theatre, our team developed three key solutions targeting the most critical problem areas: wheelchair seating, back aisles, and stage access. For wheelchair seating, we designed a foldable seating system that improves sightlines and allows flexible accommodation for different audience needs. To mitigate the steep back aisles, the layout was redesigned to reduce the slope and improve safety for individuals with mobility aids while maintaining the theatre’s historic structure. Finally, to resolve the lack of accessible stage access, a portable stage lift system was proposed, enabling performers and presenters with mobility impairments to independently reach the stage. Collectively, these solutions enhance inclusivity, safety, and comfort while preserving the architectural character of the theatre.