MasonryWorx, the Ontario association representing brick, block and stone industry professionals, has selected its list of five buildings that set the standard as the best examples of contemporary masonry in Ontario.
The buildings were chosen for their unique and trend setting use of masonry products and how they best demonstrate what can be achieved with masonry today.
“From energy efficiency and fire protection to curb appeal and higher resale values, there are many reasons why builders and homeowners choose masonry for their structures and homes,” says MasonryWorx president Judy Pryma. “While there are many worthy choices, our Top Five are the examples that have set the bar for masonry construction in Ontario.”
The top five best contemporary masonry buildings in Ontario are:
Cornell Community Centre and Library – Located in Markham, the Cornell Community Centre and Library opened in December 2012. This 129,000-sq. ft. centre has a sleek, modern brick design with large windows and houses a fitness centre, indoor playground, library, living wall, swimming facility, a triple gymnasium and more.
London Private Residence – Constructed with block that is typically used in more industrial projects, the building’s architects were looking to achieve a modern, monotone look, and captured their idea with white block in an elongated format. While some elevations are prominent for their lack of windows, the back of the house has a multitude of large windows that overlook the Thames River at the Guy Lombardo Bridge.
Contemporary Home Private Residence – This sleek and modern contemporary style home, located in London, Ontario, is the result of a beautiful marriage of design, style and modern sophistication. This innovative model has inspired not only other houses like it, but also new developments throughout the city.
Moore Park Residence – Located in Toronto’s midtown residential neighborhood of Moore Park, this modern home replaced a common-model 1924 home. With its stone exterior and contemporary design, this home embraces the iconic house-like forms of the street while adding a unique flare to the neighbourhood with its stone and wood finishes.
Fraser Mustard Building – Located in the Toronto neighbourhood of Thorncliffe Park, the Fraser Mustard Academy offers a less traditional design with its use of multiple colours and long, linear shape. Its level of detail is not often seen in similar buildings, and the builders engaged the students and public on design choices. One of the most unique features is the brick letters on the exterior of the building, representing schoolwork.