The major renovation and expansion of the Toronto French School integrates an all-new athletics complex, event space and student lounge into a sensitive heritage rehabilitation of the 1923 Sir Clifford Sifton estate on Bayview Avenue. Stepping down a dramatic slope overlooking the forested Don Valley Ravine, the Athletics Complex includes a 25-metre pool for competitive swimming in addition to a divisible double gymnasium with retractable bleachers, a multipurpose exercise and dance studio and facilities for aerobic and weight training. Clerestory windows allow natural light into the gymnasium and pool, while lounge, exercise rooms and main staircase enjoy expansive views of the ravine. The adjacent Student Centre is the school’s main social space, with a warm and welcoming environment, lounge seating, abundant natural light and honey-toned maple wood. An interior palette of red brick, maple millwork, stainless-steel hardware and off-white porcelain floor tile is both attractive and durable, requiring little maintenance.
Clerestory windows allow natural light into the gymnasium and pool, while lounge, exercise rooms and main staircase enjoy expansive views of the ravine.
