Photo Credit (Above): Doublespace Photography
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Architecture Practice: NORR Architects & Engineers Limited
Chosen by a jury of respected design experts, the 20 projects comprising the OAA’s 2026 Design Excellence Finalists represent a diverse range of building types, including sustainably designed community centres, innovative housing solutions, revitalized academic and cultural facilities, and transformative public spaces. These finalists serve as the shortlist for the OAA’s 10 Design Excellence Winners, which will be announced next month and honoured at the OAA Conference in the Waterloo Region in May. The biennial OAA Design Excellence Awards program offers Ontario practices the opportunity to display the transformative influence of architecture, promoting broader public recognition and appreciation for the field. The following media statement has been supplied by the submitting project team:
The Union Station Revitalization transforms a National Historic Site into a modern multi-modal transportation hub in downtown Toronto. Delivered through a complex, multi-year, multi-phased program, the project featured one of Canada’s most ambitious below-grade excavations constructed beneath active rail operations. The one-million-square-foot underground expansion significantly increases passenger capacity and supports new commercial and retail opportunities, creating a vibrant public destination.
Strategic improvements to pedestrian circulation, accessibility, and civic infrastructure, together with the restoration of the landmark’s historic character, reinforce its role as the city’s primary gateway.
Photo Credit: Doublespace Photography
Photo Credit: NORR
Photo Credit: Doublespace Photography
This blOAAg post is part of a series exploring the OAA’s 20 Design Excellence Finalists for 2026, as selected by our jury.