Those two curved buildings with the flying saucer (Council Chamber) in the middle is Toronto's present day City Hall. In 1957, the city held an international design competition for the new building. The winner of the competition was Finnish architect, Viljo Revell. Construction commenced on November 7, 1961, and the building was opened on September 13, 1965 by Governor General Georges Vanier. The final cost of the new City Hall was approximately $31 million. Tragically, Viljo Revell died of a heart attack 10 months prior to the opening ceremonies. He was 54.
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The archtect must have had much stress with the building, tragic he died so young. Those letters always attract tourists to make photos, the same here with the Amsterdam capitals.
ReplyDeleteI do not know Toronto even if I know a little Canada through Quebec but I appreciate the sites which allow me to discover countries, cities, places where I shall have no more the possibility of going because I cannot travel any more with 5 small companions in 4 legs at the house. Thank you for the discovery
ReplyDeleteThe buildings really embrace the council chamber. The style is typical for this period.
ReplyDeleteAn ice rink overlooking the city's architecture.
ReplyDeleteFor the letter O if the city hall would put a $ 1 fee for the photo...;)
there's a head growing out of that head!!!
ReplyDelete...'O' what an exciting space.
ReplyDeleteAdmittedly the style has always left me a bit cold, though I've liked the layout of the square. I've been inside the odd time while passing through the city. The last time was after that ice storm of 2013- I saw Rob Ford himself in the cafe, scowling.
ReplyDeleteIt's an impressive set of buildings. It's a shame the architect died before it's completion. We have a round building for council chambers too.
ReplyDelete"O" my goodness! I love this buildings. They are super attractive. They are unique. They are so Torontoian (if that's not a word, it is now!) :) Sad to hear that the architect died at such a young age. I guess we never know so enjoy each moment. I'm wondering, though, if there's a favorite "O" for taking photos?
ReplyDeleteIt is so photogenic! I never tire of seeing it!
ReplyDeleteR Mac is right---- She does have a head growing out of her head! Seriously--- Excellent images here. Good Stuff, Andy.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous building and that is so young to die, but obviously meant to be.
ReplyDeleteI'm surprised the building is over 50 years old. Most architecture in the U.S. from that era looks more dated than this. Or maybe I just haven't seen that much that represents international competition.
ReplyDeleteCool buildings. I like the flying saucer!!
ReplyDeleteahh but the architect lives on through his design and his buildings...and it's nice to have a spot for memento photos...
ReplyDeleteNice street photos.
ReplyDeleteWell at least I now know where I am. :-)
ReplyDeleteNeat buildings. I see them often in TV shows, very recognizable!
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