Made in the Shade

In June 1964, when it was completed, František (Frank) Stalmach’s Ontario Telephone Employees’ Credit Union building on the south east corner of Wilson and Avenue Road in North York was featured in the Toronto Star for its use of sun shades to cut air conditioner usage. Perhaps a testament to their efficacy, the tinted plastic shades remain in place today, more than fifty years on.

The building is now home to Harvey Kalles Real Estate. The Ontario Telephone Employees’ Credit Union is now the Comtech Fire Credit Union. After a brief look, my favourite František Stalmach design might be Atlas House in Prague, even though it was reclad. I’m a sucker for a rounded corner.