Celebrating 70 Years Of Design
Shaping the Toronto Skyline and Beyond
This year, we’re celebrating our 70th anniversary and we see this as an opportunity to reflect on how we’ve helped shape Toronto’s skyline and our global footprint abroad. Founded in Toronto in 1953, B+H began as a partnership between two individuals who shared a common vision: to create exceptional spaces for people. Over the decades, the firm has grown into a global design and consulting practice with studios around the world.
While a lot has changed since B+H’s inception, one thing remains constant: understanding how to create exceptional experiences for people is key to designing iconic spaces and environments that stand the test of time in a world that’s changing by the minute. – Patrick Fejer, CEO, Principal
It takes a designer to know a designer
B+H has partnered with many notable architectural designers over the years including Ludwig Mies van De Rohe, where B+H was Architect of Record in Joint Venture with John B. Parkin and Associates to construct the TD Centre, completed in 1991. The TD Centre set a new standard for high-rise design and has since become an iconic symbol of Toronto’s prominence as a global financial hub. B+H was also responsible for the revitalization of the interior and exterior of the complex beginning in 2010.
Formerly known as BCE Place, Brookfield Place includes two modern office towers connected to historically designated buildings, and retail and public spaces. The complex merges with Allen Lambert Galleria – the design of which was the result of an international competition won by design architect Santiago Calatrava. B+H was Architect of Record for Brookfield Place, which is now known as the ultimate expression of modern urban aesthetics, commerce and culture.
TD Centre, Toronto, Ontario
Brookfield Place, Toronto, Ontario
In addition to working with internationally known designers, B+H has designed local destinations that demonstrate a strong commitment to innovation, a sharp attentiveness to our clients’ visions, and a dedication to Toronto’s reputation as a city defined by its rich diversity and inventive spirit. B+H designed the Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, located at the base of the CN Tower, which has captivated visitors from around the world through an interactive and educational aquarium experience that continues to activate the most highly trafficked tourist area in Toronto.
We also designed The West Tower at Toronto’s MaRS Discovery District – the world’s largest innovation hub. Bridging the old and new and interior and exterior environments through a light-filled expansive space, the hub houses high-impact startups including medical, IT, engineering and social improvement enterprises.
A growing global footprint
B+H’s influence extends far beyond Canada’s borders. Our transdisciplinary perspective and commitment to user experiences have resulted in a portfolio that spans over 30 countries, serviced by 12 studios across North America and Asia.
Our studios in North America and Asia foster a culture of creativity and knowledge exchange, allowing us to stay at the forefront of design trends and emerging technologies. – Susanna Swee, Managing Principal, Shanghai | Executive Vice President, Asia, Principal
Our Shanghai Studio celebrated their 30th year anniversary last year and our portfolio across Asia continues to grow. Notable examples include the Guocoland Changfeng City in Shanghai, a vibrant mixed-use transit-oriented development that blends cultural elements with contemporary design. Meanwhile, interiors for the Tencent Seafront Towers in Shenzhen, China, exemplify how we work closely with our clients to co-create spaces that elevate their vision.
In addition, our portfolio includes the Shenzhen Natural History Museum, a testament to how we can blend the built form with nature to create immersive and inspiring experiences. A B+H-3XN-Zhubo consortium, the museum is set to be the first large-scale comprehensive natural history museum in Southern China once complete.
Shenzhen Natural History Museum, Shezhen, China
70 Years of Design
As B+H celebrates 70 years of design, we’re taking this occasion to reflect on what helped shape the firm and look into the future as we continue to uncover opportunities for growth, innovation, and a new era of design excellence.
With a global presence spanning 12 studios, we recognize that our success is owed to the collective knowledge and diverse perspectives of our teams. Join us as we connect with talent from across the firm to address what matters most to our clients and how we can continue to collaborate and co-create innovative and strategic design solutions.