Bata Shoes Headquarters

Building History[]

Address: 59 Wynford Drive
Architect: John B. Parkin Associates
Construction Date: 1965
Style: International/Expressionism
Structure: Reinforced and Precast Concrete
Materials:
Cladding - Pebble-inlaid precast concrete panels
Sculptural 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.