Merging sleek architecture and vibrant art is the newly completed 81 Bay Street building. Consisting of not one, but twelve massive custom illuminated art walls (six main lobbies at 37’ in height, and 6 sky lobbies at half size), GPI’s expertise in fine engineering and precise coordination of surface and lighting was necessary to bring Artist Steve Driscoll’s expressive and colorful works to life in backlit glass art panels. The mock up at GPI proved essential in determining several key things, including the optimal glass “recipe “to compliment the artwork, and the proper lighting color temperature to accurately enhance – without shifting – the hue of the original works. With intense color variations and amorphous forms spanning multiple stories, these art walls make for an intense experience in color, light, and scale.
“The multiple backlit art glass feature walls at both the CIBC Square and the Scotia Bank Arena footbridge are bright, beautiful, and recognized as an indispensable part of our project’s success. Our experience could not have been more pleasant, and as such, we have absolutely no hesitation in recommending the GPI team.” Alex Richter, Associate Principal | Adamson Associates Architects
“It was through GPI’s experience and diligence in working with the artists, and of course with the Ownership group in such a collaborative manner, that we ended with a truly iconic statement at CIBC Square… we highly recommend Tom and his talented team at GPI Design.” John Frank, Senior Vice President | Hines Corporation
Images courtesy of Steve Driscoll Studios
