Inventory of Heritage Properties Author - City of Toronto More information
North York's Modernist Architecture Author - City of North York Planning Department Page - 16
The Globe and Mail Date - November 26, 2005 Page - M6 Notes - Chosen by Michael Prokopow as a building to preserve.
The Globe and Mail Author - Jennifer Lewington Date - September 19, 2005 Page - A10 Notes - Article about threat of demolition to this building from Aga Khan proposal.
The Globe and Mail Author - Jennifer Lewington Date - September 29, 2005 Page - A15 Notes - Article about approval for demolition.
The Globe and Mail Author - Lisa Rochon Date - September 22, 2005 Page - R3 Notes - Article arguing against preservation of the Bata Building.
The Globe and Mail Author - Unnati Ghandi Date - September 20, 2005 Page - A11 Notes - Article about North York council voting against designating this building as heritage.
Toronto Society of Architects Guide Map 1953-2003
Toronto Star Author - Christopher Hume Date - September 20, 2005 Notes - Article about whether to preserve this building or not.
Toronto Star Author - Christopher Hume Date - September 22, 2005 Notes - Article decrying lack of preservation for the Bata building.
Toronto Star Author - Paul Moloney Date - September 29, 2005 Notes - City Hall decides against preservation.
I Grew Up in Don Mills Notes - Address: 59 Wynford DriveArchitect: John B. Parkin AssociatesConstruction Date: 1965Style: International/ExpressionismStructure: Reinforced and Precast ConcreteMaterials:Cladding - Pebble-inlaid precast concrete panelsSculptural concrete columns
The Bata International building is the world headquarters of the Bata Shoe Organization. Influenced by a modern precedent, the building asserts itself as an object in a grassy field along Wynford Drive. Various landscape and architectural elements are employed to soften the transition between nature and the built form. The building is set on a concrete plinth, raising it above the ground as a separate entity. A grael path encircles the platform, which is then surrounded by a manicured hedge, demonstrating the architects' wish to shift incrementally from the man-made construction to the site.
On the front facade, six rectangular bays containing the building services appear as if they have been clipped to the main structure. A colonnade of expressive tree-like columns wraps around three sides of the building, supporting the projecting second and third floors. At the East and West facaes, there are glazed entrances with concrete open tread stairs. Thick concrete structural elements create the second and third floor window openings; discreetly mullioned glazing is slipped in behind the protruding forms.
At ground level, the building is highly transparent with large windows spanning from floor to ceiling. From the lobby, there is a clear view right through the building to the exterior. The columns which feature branching supports are continued through the interior. Work spaces have open planning with partitioned offices on the perimeter walls, which are infilled with frosted glass for privacy. At night, the building is transformed by lighting placed at the base of the columns, brilliantly illuminating the tree-like capitals that exude a refined elegance.
The Bata building stood as an example of mid-century modern design that played a great role in the original site planning for the area of Don Mills.
In 2005-2006, Toronto City Council voted to reject a Heritage designation for the former Bata shoe headquarters, a fine example of modern architecture designed by architect John C. Parkin. As such, the 40-year-old building was demolished in 2007. It is now the site of the Aga Khan Museum and Ismaili Centre. More information
