Abilities Centre
The Abilities Centre is a visionary project that aspires to provide an inclusive, integrated and fulfilling experience for Canadian citizens of all abilities. The facility was completed in 2012 and was a featured venue in the Parapan Games component of Toronto’s 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games. The expanse of the building and intricate AESS design creates a space that is truly inspiring for both athletes and spectators.
- Steel tonnage: 1,400 tons
- Extensive AESS design
- The project was given an Award of Distinction in the International Olympic Committee (IOC) / International Paralympic Committee (IPC) / International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities (IAKS) Architectural Prizes 2013
The primary feature of this multi-use complex is a large gymnasium covered by a series of complex tri-chord curved steel trusses. These trusses were fabricated in Walters plants and brought to the site for pre-assembly using a dual crane strategy, then fully field welded to ensure a seamless appearance.
Strong collaboration between the architects, structural design engineers and the steel construction team was required to rationalize the design to meet budget and schedule constraints.