The Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) is excited to welcome the public to its award-winning headquarters once again as part of Doors Open Toronto. The annual event offers the public a rare opportunity to explore the architecture and inner workings of the Association’s offices, nestled in Toronto's Don Mills neighbourhood.
As the regulatory body governing architecture in Ontario, the OAA plays a pivotal role in promoting the importance of innovative design and sustainable architecture in building resilient and vibrant communities. The Association’s retrofitted headquarters, located at 111 Moatfield Drive, will open its doors on the weekend of May 25 and 26, between 10 am and 5 pm, to showcase what makes the building a significant landmark in Toronto.
Visitors will have the unique opportunity to explore the OAA Headquarters through guided tours led by architect Sheena Sharp, highlighting the building's architectural features, sustainable design elements, and the role of architects in shaping our urban environment. Guests can freely discover the main and second floors, with volunteers ready to answer questions. Access to the third-floor offices is limited to guided tours. Tours will be offered at 10:30 am and 2:00 pm.
The OAA also launched a Landscape Design Competition in March, an extension of the OAA’s Renew + Refresh initiative that transformed its headquarters into a model of net-zero design. Interested competitors were challenged to reimagine the OAA headquarters as a symbol of design innovation, environmental sustainability, and active community involvement. Overseen by architect Joe Lobko—who will be onsite during the Doors Open weekend—the competition focuses on creating an inviting space that respects environmental principles and celebrates the natural beauty of the Don River ravine. The competition submissions will be showcased at the headquarters during Doors Open Toronto as part of a public exhibition continuing to June 21. This event offers insight into the landscape’s potential for transformation.
Additionally, the event will feature Paper City, a family-friendly workshop hosted by the Toronto Society of Architects (TSA). This interactive session invites folks of all ages to engage in the process of city planning and architecture by collaboratively building a paper metropolis. Visitors can explore city-building concepts through this community art project, using printed templates to design, colour, and construct their own unique buildings. These individual creations will come together to form a paper community, fostering an appreciation for city planning, architecture, and the creative process from a young age.
Visitors will gain valuable insights into how architects and architecture contribute to improving the quality of life for Ontarians. The event promises to be an informative weekend for architecture enthusiasts, families, and anyone curious about the built environment.
For more details on the event and updates on tour times, please visit the OAA’s Event Calendar and follow us on our social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter/X.
Further Information
Media Contact
Daniele Alcinii (he/him), Communications Specialist
416-449-6898, ext. 306
DanieleA@oaa.on.ca
About the Ontario Association of Architects
The Ontario Association of Architects is a self-regulating organization under the Architects Act, a statute of the Government of Ontario. It is dedicated to promoting and increasing the knowledge, skill, and proficiency of its members, and administering the Act, in order that the public interest may be served and protected. For more information, visit www.oaa.on.ca.