12 Ossington is a small commercial building in Toronto with retail at grade and three floors of office above.
Twelve Ossington is a rare example of a new, low-rise commercial building in Toronto. Informed by the spirit of its historic and vibrant inner-city block, the design intent was to convey craftsmanship of simple materials and create visual engagement. The contrast of old and new, textured and transparent surfaces makes it both fit in and stand out in a way that says it is part of an evolving streetscape. Playful, syncopated arches and alcoves enliven the façade. The upper two floors of this hybrid heavy timber structure blend with the sky and north-facing natural light fills interior spaces.