May 12, 2008

KWOK WONG

A klezmer band performs at the opening ceremony of the new multi-faith centre at the University of Toronto.

University of Toronto’s multi-faith centre wins OAA’s People’s Choice Award

PATRICIA WILLIAMS

staff writer

A multi-faith centre for spiritual study and practice at the University of Toronto won the Ontario Association of Architects’ (OAA) inaugural People’s Choice Award.

Designed by Moriyama & Teshima Architects, the project involved renovation of existing space at the Koffler Institute on Spadina Avenue.

A central focus is a main activity or prayer hall. The architects combined two existing triangular-shaped, stepped lecture halls into a new single-level symmetrical room for 200 worshippers.

In its submission, Moriyama & Teshima said the challenge was to create “a unique venue” within a secular environment for the practice of religion where members of all faiths feel equally welcome and valued. That required design of “faith-neutral” spaces.

The project was completed in March 2007 at a cost of $1.8 million. Contractor was Harbridge & Cross Ltd.

“Carved from an existing interior space, this light-filled sanctuary offers a place for worship for the extremely diverse religious communities of Canada’s largest university,” said Jeanne Beker, master of ceremonies at the OAA’s recent Celebration of Excellence Awards presentation.

“The architectural expression of light — spiritually and metaphysically common to all faiths — is the central feature of the space.”

The facility also includes a multi-purpose room and food serveries, ritual cleansing facilities and contemplative spaces.

The centre received the most votes from the public during a month-long, online voting process. It was chosen from among the 15 winners of 2008 Design Excellence Awards.

“We were thrilled and moved,” said project architect Carol Phillips. “While recognition by our peers and the jury is a prestigious accolade, to have also been recognized by the public is a truly humbling honour.”

OAA president Sean O’Reilly said the association launched the People’s Choice Award to build upon the public’s growing interest in architecture and design.

“We believe the dialogue about public buildings is making people even more aware of the impact architecture and architects can make in society,” he said. “We want to strengthen our relationships with the people who use and enjoy the spaces we create.

“Building successful, sustainable communities relies upon everyone’s involvement and we hope the People’s Choice Award inspires more involvement.”

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