Buildings - Honourable Mention

Queen Richmond Centre
Address: 111 Queen St. E.
Architect/Urban Designer: Dermot J. Sweeny Architects Inc. and Young + Wright Architects Inc.
Owner/Developer: The Continental Saxon Group and Atlantic Development Inc.

Pat Bollenberghe
This is a project with a positive story. A beautiful but deteriorating building façade with heritage qualities is craftfully restored and re-invented. A transformation of the building presents new urban public spaces and gardens both visually and physically accessible. The design interventions and use of materials have been appropriate and subtle resulting in a comfortable balance and successful project.

Alex Krieger
Deserving of commendation if only on the basis of the noble undertaking to save and reuse this cluster of fine old buildings facing demolition. But beyond the act of careful architectural preservation and the accommodations for a new set of uses lies an impressive design achievement. While leaving the architectural 'bones' of the original buildings in place the architects have intertwined a sophisticated new palette of elements to enhance the complex. These additions, from canopies to circulation spines to beautifully landscaped courtyards, greatly enliven the complex, making it far more than a simple historic restoration project.

Bruce Kuwabara
The design employs a through-block interior passage and an outdoor courtyard to organize an amalgamation of industrial loft buildings into a convivial working environment. By maximizing the new primary spaces and elements, the design creates a new identity for what was a rabbit's warren of spaces establishing a collegial character to the whole complex.

Lisa Rochon
Interior courtyards with water and greenery protect us from the harsh winter and summer. The developers of this complex should be applauded for offering two oases in the downtown and, along the way, enhancing Toronto's livability.