Masonry Magazine October 1983 Page. 16
ONTARIO AWARDS
• Jackson, Ypes & Associates, for the Elgin Elementary School, Smith's Falls.
• Moffet & Duncan, for the Ramada Renaisssance Hotel, Scarborough.
• Parkin Partnership, for the Toronto Humane Society building. Toronto.
The awards jury consisted of three well-known architects-Arthur Townend of Sudbury, and Robin Clarke and Leslie Rebanks, both of Toronto, the latter acting as jury chairman.
In its report regarding the awards program, the jury commented: "This year, in spite of the severe economic climate, there were a good number of entries. Also, as well as quantity, the submissions displayed have an overall standard rarely surpassed in North America. This is somehow rather typically Canadian. We have very few stars and equally very few hopeless hacks whilst our average is commendably high.
"All in all... in spite of bad times, architecture is alive and well in Ontario."
Award of Merit-John David Eaton Wing, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Ontario. Architect: Mathers & Haldenby. Consulting Engineer: Carruthers & Wallace Ltd. General Contractor: Pigott Construction Ltd. Mason Contractor: George & Asmussen Ltd. Unit Masonry Producers: Canada Brick Co. Ltd., Primeau-Argo Block.
Jury's Comment: This building is a large hospital project related physically to other parts of Toronto General Hospital, which has been developed sporadically in many phases over many years. In the development of this type of project, the complexity of the planning problems frequently dominate the entire design process. Happily, this project is a handsome addition to the urban fabric of downtown Toronto. The relationship of the various parts of the building have been carefully and well handled. In particular, the proportions and detailing of the fenestration and other openings are very successful. The fine choice of the earth-colored brick and mortar, and the careful execution of the work result in a most acceptable solution and a welcome addition to the hospital complex.
Award of Merit-Toronto Sun Building. Toronto, Ontario. Architect: Parkin Partnership. Consulting Engineer: Parkin Engineers Ltd. General Contractor: Camston Toronto Ltd. Mason Contractor: George & Asmussen Ltd. Unit Masonry Producers: Toronto Brick Co., Primeau-Argo Block.
Jury's Comment: Simple, straightforward and tough in a tough district. This well-executed newspaper building is located in an old industrial area near downtown Toronto. Restrained detailing, well-proportioned facades and good massing using a strong orange-colored brick give the building a powerful presence without being overbearing. It fits very well in its environment. The large-scale windows are a refreshing change from 1500 modules and relate well to the simple planes enclosing the plant. Nevertheless, there is a nagging impression that the brick walls are only "skin deep" without the solidity of the older neighboring mills and warehouses.
Award of Merit-Holland Christian Homes, Hope Tower/Ebenezer Centre, Brampton, Ontario. Architect: Sievenpiper Architect Planner. Consulting Engineer: Beta Engineering Group Ltd. General Contractor: Vanbots Construction Corp. Mason Contractor: Village Contractors. Unit Masonry Producers: Domtar Construction Materials, Richvale Block & Ready-Mix.
Jury's Comment: This building, part of a multiphase project for senior citizens, is well-scaled and related to the earlier phases. A residential character has been developed, although some of the public spaces seem too institutional through the unrelenting use of masonry and tile. However, the continuity between exterior and interior is well conceived and the subtle brick detailing lends a character and distinction. The mortar color is carefully chosen to reinforce the subtle coloring of the brick.
16 MASONRY-SEPTEMBER OCTOBER, 1983