Alliance Française de Toronto

Toronto, ON

The addition and renovation undertaken by Alliance Française de Toronto (AFT) was delivered in two phases on a tight budget, concurrent with a full programme schedule. Phase I opened to the public in 2014, adding a wing at the rear of the existing Victorian-era building to contain teaching and performance space. Phase II enhances AFT’s public presence and relationship to the street through a new front entrance on Spadina Road and a small reception space adjoining the existing building to the south. The expansion adds 11,000 square feet to the building.

Programmatically, Phase I includes a 147-seat performance space at ground level, two floors containing eight classrooms, an elevator, and new mechanical systems. Full-height operable windows naturally light and ventilate the second- and third-floor classrooms. A curved cedar and copper wall at street level indicates the location of the multi-purpose performance space. In addition to the new entrance and reception, Phase II provides the institution with a gallery, second-floor meeting room, café and library, and renovated infrastructure throughout.

Project Facts

Client

Alliance Française

Location

Toronto, ON

Status

Completed 2019

Size

11,000 sq. ft.

Partner

Siamak Hariri

Textured, curved wood highlights the new cultural space, while copper and glass anchor the upper classroom floor and add transparency.

A new 147-seat multi-purpose performance centre and eight additional classrooms contribute significantly to AFT’s goals of delivering quality programming while promoting French culture and language globally.

Phase II included the integration of a new front entrance and improvements to the historic Victorian-style red brick façade fronting onto Spadina.