Once home to the railroad-guarding CN Police, this 1920's building sits at the lonely intersection of Cherry and Front Streets. In recent years, it has served as a location for film and television shoots, including the Oscar-winning Chicago. As part of the West Don Lands project, the CN Police Building and the former Canary Restaurant building have been recommended for preservation. Illustration by Kevin McBride.... [continue]

Continuing a popular series from earlier this year, Illustration Sunday will explore some interesting local buildings over the next few weeks. Completed in 1897, this building on the southwest corner of Queen and Sherbourne started out as a hotel. Cited for its "design value as a representative example of a late 19th century corner hotel," the Kormann House is included in the Toronto Heritage Property Inventory. Though vacant for the past few years, this... [continue]

Continuing a popular series from earlier this year, Illustration Sunday will explore some interesting local buildings over the next few weeks. The property northwest of Black Creek Drive and Eglinton Avenue was once home to the Canadian Kodak Company. Building nine was the Employees’ Building, and it remains the only structure on site. This industrial building provided a cafeteria, gymnasium, weight-lifting facilities, and change rooms for company employees. Although the property has been purchased... [continue]

They could be the next big thing, if only they could get a gig. This humorous online series follows Matt and Jay—Nirvana the Band—and their ongoing efforts to break into Toronto's music scene. Five episodes and various extras are currently online, with a sixth episode presumably in the works. First the Rivoli, then the world! Illustration by Kevin McBride.... [continue]

After a quiet vacation in the country, returning to Toronto can be quite a shock. Despite all of the smog and noise, the city possesses a beauty of its own. For example, the heartwarming feeling brought on by pedestrians teaming up to tongue-lash a red-light-runner. It's great to be back home! Illustration by Kevin McBride.... [continue]

The sunset view of Toronto’s skyline can be quite lovely. At Cherry Beach, watch as the sun sinks behind the towers of the financial district. It’s a scene both apocalyptic and serene. Illustration by Kevin McBride.... [continue]

Though the official start of summer is still two weeks away, the mercury is already rising. With noticeably lower temperatures and a refreshing breeze, Toronto's waterfront is a great place to cool down. So whether you’re into sandcastles, swimming, or just reading under a shady tree, head down to the lake to beat the heat this summer. Illustration by Kevin McBride.... [continue]

Who knew that the Gardiner was good for more than traffic jams? Between the Ride For Heart today, and the controversial Critical Mass ride last Friday, Toronto's highways are getting plenty of bike traffic. As cycling continues to grow in popularity, could a bicycle expressway eventually become reality? Illustration by Kevin McBride.... [continue]

Regardless of whether you’re a Black Bull regular or a fan of Allen's, patio season has arrived. Toronto has plenty of outdoor oases on which to soak up the sun and suds. Your preliminary checklist: hat, shades, sunscreen, and a great thirst. Illustration by Kevin McBride.... [continue]

This weekend Torontonians celebrate Victoria Day the only way we know how—by blowin' shit up! This is the first holiday of the year for which the public may legally purchase and light fireworks, Canada Day being the other. If you're not brave enough to light your own fireworks, there are several displays scheduled for the weekend. Illustration by Kevin McBride.... [continue]

Just in time for Mother’s Day, this pair of Peregrine Falcons has three new chicks. Each year they return to the same nesting spot on a ledge eighteen floors above Etobicoke. The location is equipped with a camera, and the live video feed can be streamed online. Tune in for a feeding session with these baby birds of prey—it’s fascinating. Illustration by Kevin McBride.... [continue]

Today is Jane Jacobs Day in Toronto, marking the date of her birth. If you hurry, you might still catch a walking tour honouring our celebrated urban thinker. Much like Janus—the two-headed Roman god capable of seeing both past and future—Jacobs's writings on urban development were considered visionary. Just as Janus represents change or transition, Jacobs was a force for change. She helped stop the Spadina Expressway proposal, and her ideas influence urban planning... [continue]

The TTC pulled a disappearing act this weekend, leaving many people to find alternative means of transportation. However, our provincial politicians have a trick or two up their sleeves as well, and are trying to make the TTC reappear. Let's hope they succeed—it will take some powerful magic to get anywhere on Monday if they don't. Illustration by Kevin McBride.... [continue]

The McGuinty provincial government last week announced an end to the clothesline bans that have been active in some Ontario communities. Now’s your chance to show off your unmentionables to the neighbourhood. If you don’t have a clothesline, you’re in luck: Toronto Hydro is giving away 75,000 clotheslines to Toronto residents over the next few weekends. Illustration by Kevin McBride.... [continue]

Recent renovations at the ROM and OCAD have been subject to much discussion, but there’s more to Toronto than contemporary architecture. Though often overlooked, there are a variety of interesting historical buildings to be found around town. This concludes a series of three posts exploring some of these hidden treasures. The William Reynolds Block has occupied the southeast corner of Yonge and Gould since 1888. An impressive example of the Renaissance Revival style, its... [continue]

Recent renovations at the ROM and OCAD have been subject to much discussion, but there’s more to Toronto than contemporary architecture. Though often overlooked, there are a variety of interesting historical buildings to be found around town. This is the second in a series of three posts exploring some of these hidden treasures. The Graphic Arts Building is located at 73 Richmond Street West. At only five stories, its scale sets it apart from... [continue]

Recent renovations at the ROM and OCAD have been subject to much discussion, but there’s more to Toronto than contemporary architecture. Though often overlooked, there are a variety of interesting historical buildings to be found around town. Over the next few weeks, Illustration Sunday will show you some of these buildings. Pictured above is the building situated at 197 King Street East, in an area known as Old Town Toronto. Featuring elaborate woodworking and... [continue]

An early Easter this year means you may be looking under snow banks instead of shrubs for your chocolate eggs. The Beaches is a great place to hold your own egg hunt, and while you’re there be sure to catch the Easter Parade. Rumour has it that the big bunny himself will be making an appearance. Illustration by Kevin McBride.... [continue]

Can’t get to Florida for Spring Break this year? Don’t fret, for with a few accessories, you can enjoy a Florida vacation in the comfort of your Toronto home. Sun, sea and surf are the essential elements. Add some Jimmy Buffet and break out the Coors Light—you’re on vacation! Illustration by Kevin McBride.... [continue]

Get your wellies ready because March is here and the end of winter is just around the corner. Puddles will be plentiful as Toronto defrosts after what may be a record-breaking season for snowfall. Hang in there folks—the first day of spring is March 20th. Illustration by Kevin McBride.... [continue]