ALBION ARENA
Toronto, Canada
2018
Design Architect: Kris Vassilev / multiArchitecture
Architect of Record: WGD Architects
Client: City of Toronto
Kris Vassilev's Scope of Work:
Full architectural services
The project presents a major transformation of this City of Toronto sports and recreation complex. Built as an outdoor rink more than 50 years ago, the facility quickly evolved into an important community hub in Etobicoke. The community itself has significantly changed over the years and currently more than 20 non-official mother-tongue languages are spoken here. The facility needed some major upgrades, including mechanical and accessibility, and the City's funding was timely.
ALBION ARENA
Toronto, Canada
2018
Design Architect: Kris Vassilev
Architect of Record: WGD Architects
Client: City of Toronto
Kris Vassilev's Scope of Work:
Full architectural services
We approached this project as an opportunity to go beyond the minimum required code and engineering upgrades, and to transform the building's architecture. There were two major disadvantages of the existing facility in this regard - lack of openness and natural light, as well as lack of visual connection between the entry lobby and the ice rink, which is the focal point of the building.
ALBION ARENA
Toronto, Canada
2018
Design Architect: Kris Vassilev
Architect of Record: WGD Architects
Client: City of Toronto
Kris Vassilev's Scope of Work:
Full architectural services
The solutions were found within the existing building composition: the north-south spine was revealed by removing existing walls, ramp and stairs, and the east-west composition axis was strengthen by incorporating new stairs and new staff office overlooking the lounge area.
ALBION ARENA
Toronto, Canada
2018
Design Architect: Kris Vassilev
Architect of Record: WGD Architects
Client: City of Toronto
Kris Vassilev's Scope of Work:
Full architectural services
New spacious vestibule with sliding doors, large glazing and welcoming canopy bring natural light to a new lobby leading to the arena. New insulated glass sliding doors and screens separate the ice rink from the adjacent common spaces while keeping the visual connections between them.
ALBION ARENA
Toronto, Canada
2018
Design Architect: Kris Vassilev
Architect of Record: WGD Architects
Client: City of Toronto
Kris Vassilev's Scope of Work:
Full architectural services
Other elements include fully transformed barrier-free change rooms, viewing areas, community lounge and zamboni room extension. The ice rink exterior metal siding was replaced with new insulated metal panels. The mechanical and electrical systems were fully upgraded.
ALBION ARENA
Toronto, Canada
2018
Design Architect: Kris Vassilev
Architect of Record: WGD Architects
Client: City of Toronto
Kris Vassilev's Scope of Work:
Full architectural services
An existing chimney was transformed into a colourful marker - a distant reminder of a "Haida" house totem pole, to celebrate this diverse community. The project "brought to new life a hidden gem", and was recognized by the City as the best and most accessible single-pad arena in Toronto.
Photography: Tom Arban
