Nestled in the heart of downtown Hamilton, The Rebecca is shaped by the energy of a neighbourhood in transition. Located along a growing cultural corridor and directly connected to a new urban park, the project responds to a context defined by art, music, and food. The interiors are designed to reflect this vibrancy while offering a grounded, approachable living experience for a youthful and evolving community.
Drawing from Hamilton’s industrial past and its emerging green spaces, the design balances raw materiality with moments of softness and light. Wood tones, blackened finishes, and exposed elements reference the city’s heritage, while integrated planting, moss walls, and layered greenery introduce a biophilic counterpoint. This interplay creates a design language that feels both rooted and fresh, connecting the building to its surroundings in a deliberate and cohesive way.
The lobby establishes this tone as an active and welcoming hub. An exposed ceiling with wood beams brings texture and vertical rhythm, while carefully selected lighting elements contribute both atmosphere and acoustic comfort. Rather than functioning as a transitional space, the lobby is paired directly with a co-working lounge, creating a shared environment that supports both social interaction and focused work. Private rooms for virtual meetings are integrated within this space, reinforcing its flexibility and relevance to contemporary living.
This emphasis on connection continues throughout the ground floor amenities. The fitness centre, positioned along the building’s edge, engages directly with the adjacent park through expansive glazing. Cardio zones are oriented toward these views, strengthening the relationship between movement and landscape. Material choices, including black brick and warm accents, extend the architectural language of the exterior inward, maintaining continuity across scales.
Above, amenity spaces introduce a more expressive and social character. A games room and informal gathering areas bring a sense of energy and play, supporting the lifestyle of a demographic drawn to the neighbourhood’s cultural scene. These spaces are designed to feel open and accessible, encouraging interaction while maintaining a refined material palette.
A defining move in the project is the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living. Amenity spaces extend toward terraces and rooftop areas without clear thresholds, allowing activity to flow naturally between environments. Outdoor zones are conceived as an extension of the interior, with gardens, seating areas, and communal spaces that mirror the scale and comfort of indoor rooms. This continuity reinforces a sense of openness while maximizing access to light, air, and views.
Throughout the building, the design remains focused on creating a cohesive experience that reflects its context. By grounding the interiors in the culture and character of Hamilton, The Rebecca offers a living environment that feels connected, contemporary, and enduring.
