The addition and renovation undertaken by Alliance Française de Toronto (AFT) was delivered in two phases on a tight budget, concurrent with a full programme schedule. Phase I opened to the public in 2014, adding a wing at the rear of the existing Victorian-era building to contain teaching and performance space. Phase II enhances AFT’s public presence and relationship to the street through a new front entrance on Spadina Road and a small reception space adjoining the existing building to the south. The expansion adds 11,000 square feet to the building.
Programmatically, Phase I includes a 147-seat performance space at ground level, two floors containing eight classrooms, an elevator, and new mechanical systems. Full-height operable windows naturally light and ventilate the second- and third-floor classrooms. A curved cedar and copper wall at street level indicates the location of the multi-purpose performance space. In addition to the new entrance and reception, Phase II provides the institution with a gallery, second-floor meeting room, café and library, and renovated infrastructure throughout.
