An application has been received by the City to demolish 10 St. Mary, a mid-rise office building on the northwest corner of Yonge and St Mary streets. There has been no word yet regarding proposals by Lifetime Developments, owners of the property, to replace the building if demolition is approved. 

The 8 storey office tower at 10 St Mary is a handsome example of mid century architecture, image from GoogleMaps

The eight storey building is a handsome example of Toronto mid-century architecture. Designed by Mathers & Haldenby architects to house their offices along with other architecture firms, the building's thoughtful design shows in its details, with artful brick patterning and tilting casements. Heritage architecture specialist E.R.A.'s offices continues the tradition of architects inhabiting the space.

Toronto is graced with many examples of mid- century architecture. However, without protection from heritage designation, many of these buildings are being demolished, and examples from this era are slowly being wiped from the face of the city.

An appliction for the demolition of 10 St Mary has been received by the City, image from GoogleMaps

The application for the demolition of 10 St. Mary joins two neighbouring projects in what is turning into a concentrated hotspot for construction and development in this area, just southwest of Yonge and Bloor. 

Across the street is another loss for Toronto mid-century modernism. Though not being demolished, the Church of Scientology building is undergoing a massive renovation, including a colourful PostModern recladding that has upset many as a major departure from the building's Modernist purity. 

The Church of Scientology Building across the street is undergoing renovation and recladding

Immediately west of the Scientology site is Nicholas Residences which continues to rise. The 35-storey "off Yonge" project will tower above the 19th century low-rise cottages along St Nicholas Street. Nicholas Residences' podium has been sized to recreate the exterior of the former planing mill that it replaces, clad with bricks which were saved from mill's façade.

UrbanToronto will continue to provide updates on 10 St Mary as the application is received and more information becomes available. Check out the Forum thread to join the discussion and find out more about 10 St Mary Street and voice your thoughts about the possible loss of this architectural gem, or leave a comment below.