80 Atlantic, Toronto’s first timber-frame commercial building built in a generation, represents a new vision for urban development. One that’s grounded in natural materials, sustainability and community. Awarded the 2022 Royal Architectural Institute of Canada Governor General’s Medal, the building sets a new architectural standard.

This works responds to the building’s timber-frame construction through the use of wood as both material and metaphor. Drawing inspiration from architecture, art history and puzzles, the piece explores the idea of community as a structure built collectively and formed through parts that rely on each other to create a cohesive whole.

Referencing the history and evolution of Liberty Village, the work reflects on the neighbourhood as a framework shaped by growth, creativity, industry and collaboration. Simplified forms echo the geometry of the surrounding built environment and the tactile language of puzzles as timeless objects associated with learning, play and development.

Through carving, layers, bevelled edges and wood stains, the work investigates ways of constructing space, meaning and structure. The material itself remains central to the work as a warm, natural, tactile substance which carries the physical memory of the timber building and the emotional resonance of human touch and experience.

At its core, the work is an ode to Hullmark, Liberty Village and to the idea that architecture extends beyond buildings alone. It exists in the systems, relationships and communities we build together.

In Collaboration With:
Fugitive Glue – Jano Badovinac, Jared Ireland
Hullmark

Materials List:
Marine Plywood (FSC® Certified), Water-based paint and stain, Anti Graffiti coating, Aluminium