StudioAC, a design firm based in Canada, has transformed Bao, a Chinese restaurant in Markham, Ontario, into a space that harmoniously blends with its strip mall surroundings.
Bao’s interior design revolves around two angled lines that draw attention from the street-facing windows to the open kitchen at the back. While the interior stands out amidst the neighboring shops, StudioAC intentionally kept the restaurant’s facade simple to blend into the suburban environment.
The focus was on creating a distinctive visual terminus within the repetitive box stores, capturing the essence of the strip mall context. The …

BLDG Workshop has unveiled its latest architectural masterpiece on the outskirts of Toronto. The Badlands Home, named after the distinct topographic features of the area, showcases a stunning interplay of weathering-steel accents against an all-white backdrop. Those interested in visiting the site should be aware that it’s situated near Caledon and can be accessed by car roughly one hour from Toronto.
The home features contrasting details of Corten steel, establishing a visual connection with the Badlands’ distinctive features. The rugged terrain of the badlands, currently recognized as a heritage site, showcases great …

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) in Toronto is set to receive a magnificent new gallery design from Selldorf Architects, who partner with Diamond Schmitt and Two Row Architects. The Dani Reiss Modern and Contemporary Gallery will be situated on top of an existing parking lot, adjacent to the Frank Gehry-designed 2008 expansion.
Principal Annabelle Selldorf expressed the aim of creating an impactful yet harmonious addition: “Our utmost goal was to honor and respect the nearby OCAD University, Grange Park, and Gehry building urban setting. We aimed to harmoniously blend into our surroundings by creating a subtle appearance that …