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Hot off the heels of our last publication, BNKC is eager to introduce new projects and thoughts on design approaches. We invite your engagement with the following segments.
PROJECT FEATURE
An Introduction to 15 Chisholm Ave. Image: Rendering for Chisholm Avenue by BNKC Architects
15 Chisholm Avenue is a 6-storey, residential, purpose-built rental building situated on a site of a former Masonic Temple. The classic character of this heritage asset expressed in its formal masonry façade, located within the residential Danforth neighbourhood. The site sits on the edge of a community park.
Its character is tied to the innovations that arose from the inherent challenges of the site. An uncommon feature to the project with its urban context is the fact that this building is experienced from all four sides. BNKC worked to develop a design that respects the fabric of the temple and addresses the different faces of the building; from the street, park, Avenue; and the neighbourhood. The design solution was a study in carving out from a pure form to create opportunities for balconies and terraces. The design details include punched window expressions within a lighter panel assembly, meant to contrast with the austere formal design of the temple. With its unique stature within its surroundings, this structure becomes a beacon to the neighbourhood in much the same way the masonic temple was a beacon to the community.
Along the northside of the building there are ground-related walk-up loft units that face the park. The front court entrance provides a processional entry to the Masonic Temple and apartment entry. The shared amenities are provided at the third level, within the volume of the Masonic Temple’s Assembly Room.
BLAST FROM THE PAST
High Park Library
Image of High Park Branch Library by serah.marie (via Instagram)
At the end of September High Park Library received a shout out through Toronto Storeys’ website as an honourable mention in their ‘5 Of Toronto’s Most Instagrammable Public Libraries’ feature by Joy D’Souza. Joseph Bogdan Associates Inc. (a predecessor of BNKC Architects) completed a renovation of the building in 1991. It’s nice to see the firm’s work standing the test of time and receiving attention on contemporary promotional platforms. Not all that is instagrammable need be flashy!
STAFF PROFILE
Daniel Garnier
Image: Photo of Daniel Garnier by Randy Zev Weinstein
Computational design is currently at the forefront of the AEC industry. At BNKC, we are positioning ourselves to provide our clients with a set of tools driven by design technology and excellence.
To that end, BNKC Architects would like to welcome our new BIM Specialist, Daniel Garnier. Daniel’s practice lies at the intersection between architecture and technology. He compliments the firm’s skill set with a strong background in interdisciplinary design, construction documentation, contract administration, and project management. His first initiative is to advance BNKC’s digital practice by integrating visual programming, generative design, and cloud-based collaboration.
Daniel’s role includes optimizing workflows, supporting the project team in advancing their knowledge, refining office standards, and providing oversight of the digital practice for every project in the office.
Daniel likes to hone his skills by learning to program in Python and read about neuroscience for architecture. In his spare time, he is either in the pool swimming or playing beach volleyball when the weather is good!
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