Ontario’s design scene thrives on a unique tension between modern innovation and the province’s deep roots in history. The legacy of Ontario’s Indigenous peoples, European settlers, and industrial past is woven into the province’s architectural fabric, and designers today are faced with the task of honoring that heritage while pushing forward with cutting-edge ideas.
Take Toronto, for example, a city where glass towers rub shoulders with heritage buildings, and industrial lofts are transformed into modern residences. The juxtaposition of old and new is a hallmark of the city’s design ethos, allowing for a layered urban experience where history and modernity can coexist in creative harmony. The recent trend of adaptive reuse – turning former factories or warehouses into vibrant mixed-use spaces – demonstrates how Ontario is redefining what it means to preserve its past while embracing contemporary needs.
There is a growing sentiment that Ontario’s design community must be more intentional in bridging the gap between its past and future. While the preservation of architectural history is important, there’s an increasing urgency to ensure that new designs don’t merely imitate the past but also make bold statements that reflect our evolving cultural and environmental sensibilities. One of the most interesting examples of this is House on the Park by Superkul. The contrast of a century old home with modern design interventions makes this an exciting visual feast. As always, God is in the detail, and the restoration of the heritage characteristics, such as the ceiling in the living room and the new elements, including the sculptural staircase make this project exceptional.
I am happy to report that sustainability has become a driving force in design across Ontario, as the province confronts the realities of climate change and resource depletion. In architecture, green building practices are increasingly the norm rather than the exception. The rise of passive house designs, which prioritize energy efficiency and natural ventilation, and the proliferation of LEED-certified buildings in Ontario’s urban centers are proof of the province’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The addition of green roofs, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient lighting is no longer reserved for the eco-conscious few but has become an essential part of design practice in major cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Kitchener Waterloo. A great example of this is a new award-winning project by Walter Fedy (formerly BSN) and Sable Arc Studios, which brings their expertise to the University of Prince Edward Island for a Hybrid Research, Educational and Residential Facility – with a goal for net zero carbon and net zero energy.
As Ontario continues to grow – both in population and in global significance – the role of design will only become more pivotal. The challenge for the province’s designers is to create spaces, products, and experiences that are not only visually compelling but also socially responsible, environmentally sustainable, and adaptable to the rapidly changing needs of a diverse population.
Ontario’s design culture is evolving, with innovation happening at every level of design practice. However, this evolution should not be purely driven by aesthetics or profit but by a deeper consideration of the broader societal impact of design. Whether it’s reimagining urban spaces to foster stronger communities, rethinking the ways we build homes to be more energy-efficient, or exploring new materials and technologies for a circular economy, design has the power to influence how we live, work, and interact with each other.
Ultimately, the future of design in Ontario will depend on its ability to balance its rich cultural heritage with the pressing need for sustainable, inclusive, and forward-thinking solutions. By embracing these challenges head-on, Ontario’s design community can continue to set the standard for thoughtful, impactful, and innovative design on a global scale. OD