On Saturday May 25th, 2013 and Sunday May 26th, 2013 the city of Toronto will be hosting their 14th annual Doors Open Toronto event throughout the city. Presented by Great Gulf, this free event allows fans of architecture, design, art and history to experience just of a few of the fascinating sites Toronto has to offer. The theme for this year’s event is “Creators, Makers and Innovators” and will be featuring tours, open houses and interactive events at many of Toronto’s repurposed historical sites, among other celebrated locations. With over 150 museums, art galleries, schools, design studios, historical sites and other locations generally closed to the public participating, this event allows design enthusiasts the opportunity to explore the inside of some of their favourite architectural locations.
The unique theme for this year’s event allows the public to experience the best of Toronto’s redesigned architectural sites. Among these repurposed locations is the Toronto Carpet Factory located in Liberty Village. This 312,000 square foot factory, once home to the self-sufficient carpet manufacturer of the same name, has since been repurposed to house inspiring offices for various industries including interior design, architecture and marketing.
Photo: Courtesy of York Heritage
As well as a vast list of historical sites participating in the event, many newly renovated projects will also be opening their doors for the viewing pleasure of Toronto design fans. Located at 30 College Street the home of the Native Child and Family Services of Toronto is a small taste of Canadian First Nations in the core of downtown Toronto. Designed by Levitt Goodman Architects, this unique 30,000 square foot office has been recognized for its distinct celebration of First Nation’s culture and thoughtful use of materials.
Photo: Courtesy of Ben Rahn / A-Frame Inc
The project’s award winning multipurpose room, the Longhouse, is constructed from horizontal strips of white cedar and is reminiscent of the traditional structures of First Nations shelters. In addition to the Longhouse, the office boasts many literal and symbolic connections to Canada’s native community, as well as a fully functioning “green” roof growing traditional First Nations medicines and crops.
Photo: Courtesy of Jesse Colin Jackson
Photo: Courtesy of Ben Rahn / A-Frame Inc
These are just two examples of the great design Toronto has to showcase. With more than 150 locations to explore, there is guaranteed to be something open for everyone during this once a year opportunity.
For a full list of participating locations and times visit the Official Doors Open Toronto site.
