Exhibition: Toronto Imagined

 Speculations Towards a New Cityscape

“Before the real city could be seen it had to be imagined…” 

― Michael Ondaatje, In the Skin of a Lion

This exhibition is a conversation about Toronto’s future and explores the architectural implications of the city's urban form. Over the last few decades Toronto has drastically flourished to become a dynamic global metropolis yet the politics of its planning and architecture have struggled to keep pace. 

The late 19th century and early 20th century built fabric that characterizes Toronto’s inner suburbs presents variation on the level of the city block, however in terms of its massing, use, and overall urban form, there is significant homogeneity and limitations for a 21st century city.

From a vision for Little Jamaica to a counter proposal for Alexandra Park, the show brings together the built and speculative works of the Studio of Contemporary Architecture (SOCA), each project asking the question: How can we imagine a vibrant and culturally rich Toronto? A recurring theme in SOCA’s work is the negotiation between change and continuity. Whether in stark juxtaposition or incremental in nature the work tackles issues of density, sustainability, affordability, walkability, and heritage. Though specific to Toronto, the projects are emblematic of Canadian urbanism and beyond – an opportunity to prototype new urban forms for this era.

Please be aware that this event/exhibition is being documented by Toronto Metropolitan University (the University). Photographs and/or video footage may be used by the University in any publication, multimedia production, display advertisement or online platform.