Carleton University is set to enhance its on-campus housing with the introduction of Rideau House, a new residence building scheduled to open in the fall of 2025.
The building’s name was selected based on “the school’s close proximity to the Rideau River and Rideau Canal,” Steven Reid, Carleton’s media relations officer, said in a statement.
Designed to accommodate more than 450 students, Rideau House will prioritize housing incoming first-years.
The residence will offer double and single traditional-style rooms, each furnished with extra-long twin beds, desks and chairs. Unique to this building are half-wall partitions in double rooms to provide added privacy between occupants. Adjoining rooms will share a washroom.
Beyond individual living spaces, Rideau House is set to introduce a variety of communal areas. These include a community kitchen, maker space, theatre room, multi-faith space, fitness centre, half-court gym, sensory-free room and dedicated study lounges on each floor.
Additionally, the building will provide practical amenities such as a laundry room on the second level, bike storage and tunnel access.
Mohammed Akif, president and CEO of the Rideau River Residence Association, expressed enthusiasm for the project.
“We are incredibly excited for the opening of Rideau House in fall 2025,” Akif said. “As a student leader, I’ve seen firsthand how important accessible, modern and inclusive housing is for our community, especially for incoming first-year students.”
Akif highlighted the pressing need for additional on-campus housing, noting the addition of 450 new beds will help address growing demand and allow more students to benefit from the unique experience of living on campus.
“The inclusion of diverse amenities such as the sensory-free space, multi-faith space and maker space reflects our student body’s needs and priorities,” he said. “These features demonstrate Carleton’s commitment to fostering an environment where all students can thrive.”
He also said the impacts of the new residence will extend into the broader campus community.
“This new building will not only meet the demand for additional housing, but also provide a vibrant, supportive environment where students can excel academically and socially. We can’t wait to see this space come to life.”
Featured image by Daniel Fraser.
