Cheryl Atkinson

Cheryl Atkinson is an Associate Professor and Associate Chair of Global Learning in the Department of Architectural Science at Toronto Metropolitan University. She holds a BArch and BES from the University of Waterloo. Her research focuses on architectural design’s psychological impact, urban open space design, materiality, low-carbon housing, and wellness-informed architecture. She emphasizes phenomenology in teaching, exploring how design elements like daylight, color, and spatial arrangement affect human well-being and social interaction.

Her professional practice includes award-winning projects such as the Linea Bayview Town Homes (2013 Urban Design Award) and Montrose Cultural Centre (2010 Prairie Design Award). She leads the EcoStudio research group and has contributed to major studies like the post-occupancy evaluation of Bridgepoint Active Healthcare. Recognized as a Fellow of RAIC, she actively participates in professional bodies like the OAA Sustainable Built Environment Committee and Metrolinx Design Review Panel.

Key contributions include integrating 'freespace' for social connectivity in design and advancing low-carbon housing solutions through initiatives like ZeroHouse. Her work bridges academic research with practical applications, advocating for architecture as a catalyst for community and environmental health.