Office Building Lobby Entrance Renovation

All-glass entrance system in a high-ceiling lobby space looking out to the street.

Context

This project involved the replacement of an existing glass façade and the redevelopment of the main entrance to an operating office building in Toronto. The work was initiated by property management to address accessibility requirements, modernize aging exterior components, and establish a durable and compliant base‑building interface for future tenant activity.

The primary objective was to deliver an upgraded entrance system that met current Building Code and accessibility standards while preserving full access to the building during construction.

Exterior view of the all-glass entrance with stainless steel entry portals.

Key Conditions

Existing, multi‑storey office building with continuous operations
Primary entrance requiring full accessibility compliance
Existing aluminum storefront system at dated
Tight urban frontage with limited staging space
Coordination with consultants, property management, and contractors

Overall street facade with all-glass entrance and existing colonnade with canopy skylight.

Architectural Scope

Architectural services included the development of permit drawings and general review to support an upgraded, code‑compliant lobby entrance, including:

Replacement of the aging aluminum storefront façade with a new all-glass entrance assembly
Upgraded barrier‑free entry, including level access and compliant hardware
Integration of the new entrance system with the existing structural frame
Coordination of glazing, metalwork, and sealant details
Documentation to support permit submission and general review during construction

The existing office building lobby looking through an aluminum storefront with vestibules.

Existing Conditions

Construction occurred while the building remained fully occupied, requiring careful sequencing to maintain safe entry and egress at all times. The replacement of the façade involved temporary enclosures, controlled access points, and coordination with building operations and municipal requirements. The scope was shaped by Ontario Building Code accessibility and life‑safety provisions, as well as practical limitations of the existing structure.

Oblique street view of the all-glass entrance and existing colonnade with canopy skylight.

Outcome

The completed entrance upgrade delivered a modernized and accessible façade, resolved compliance issues associated with the aged storefront system, and established a durable base‑building condition suited to ongoing tenant turnover. The new all-glass entrance improved safety, clarity of entry, and long‑term building performance without interrupting operations.