The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) has just revealed the initial plans for its new Dani Reiss Modern and Contemporary Gallery project led by Selldorf Architects, Diamond Schmitt, and Two Row Architect.

The 40,000-square-foot addition will add 13 galleries in order to expand its total exhibition space by 30%. The project is being funded by a $35 million donation from Canada Goose CEO Dani Reiss and, led by Two Row, has sought expensive input from Ontario’s Indigenous community in addition to the other two architect-advisors that were announced by the gallery last year.

The AGO says: “These conversations and others are instrumental in leading the team to adopt adaptability, accessibility, relevancy, zero carbon operating, and inclusivity as their guiding principles.”

The project will accomplish a zero carbon emissions output for all its operations and otherwise be designed along international Passive House standards that maximize heating and cooling efficiency.

Annabelle Selldorf describes: “In the design of the new expansion, we were motivated to create something that would at once announce its presence in a strong and impactful way, relating to and respecting the adjacent Gehry building, Grange Park and OCAD University urban context as it simultaneously almost blends into the sky depending on the changing light and climate. The interior provides beautiful well-proportioned flexible galleries that will welcome the public and allow them to experience the AGO’s far-ranging collection in new and engaging ways. Integrated with the existing museum, the addition is conceived to serve the art and the community alike.”

Two Row Principal Brian Porter added: “The Art Gallery of Ontario is a worldwide leader in the field of engaging and representing Indigenous voices. As demonstrated in their book entitled Moving the Museum, they have been committed to reconciliation for many, many years. We saw the expansion as an opportunity to extend the conversation into the very architecture of the place.”

“The team of architects has created a welcoming addition where trust can be built, and relationships nurtured. The design integrates craft, cultural narratives, and the values of Indigenous peoples that can contribute to a curriculum of learning, sharing, healing, and celebrating,” Porter continued. “This is achieved through three key indigenous values: Adaptability, Biophilia and Kinship. The AGO addition includes open, adaptable areas to serve an evolving need to highlight Indigenous artists and host community gatherings. There are vantage points and an outdoor terrace to access the sky, stars, water, and land to support ceremonies and educational land-based learning. The spaces promote intimate connections between occupants, nature, and art while allowing for the cross-pollination of ideas, culture, and values.”

Plans are for the construction of the new addition to begin sometime in 2024.