The Automotive building was constructed in 1929 as a venue for the exhibition of new automobiles. This use continued in to the 1960’s however over the years various unsympathetic renovations occurred and after 80 years the building had became outdated and was no longer functional for the original use.
The new project involved the rehabilitating of the building into a convention centre, including a 45,000 s.f. ballroom, 20 multipurpose conference rooms as well as associated pre-function and support spaces. The interior work proposed a ground floor layout that was similar to its original configuration, though with new functional spaces. The design focused on restoring the qualities and features of the original Art Deco building in the service of the new programme, as well as upgrading the building envelope, and achieving a LEED silver facility.
The restoration was significant and comprehensive involving the principle character defining aspects of the original art deco building, the entire exterior envelope, and the north and south entry lobbies. The result is a new facility that retains all of the qualities of the original combined with a new and vital use that fits better into the original envelope that the present requirements for modern exhibition facilities.
AWARDS:
2010 - Heritage Toronto, William Greer Architectural Conservation and Craftsmanship, Award of Merit;
2010 - Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals Award of Merit, Adaptive Re-use Heritage Building;
2010 - Toronto Construction Association (TCA), “Best of the Best” award in the category of Project Achievement;
2010 - Interior Design Magazine, Best of the Year Award;
2009 - Ontario Building Envelope Council, Award of Distinction for Design;
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