OCAD University Sharp Centre Toronto
A gravity-defying architectural marvel, the Sharp Centre 'floats' on colorful crayon-like legs, a vibrant icon of OCAD University.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Best light for architectural photos
OCAD University Sharp Centre Toronto
Best Time
Best light for architectural photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A gravity-defying architectural marvel, the Sharp Centre 'floats' on colorful crayon-like legs, a vibrant icon of OCAD University.
"One of the most bizarre buildings I've ever seen, and the reason I decided to go to Art School is this 'floating' building."
📸 Capture the 'Floating' Effect
Experiment with different angles to truly capture the illusion of the Sharp Centre 'floating' above its base.
🚶♀️ Walkable from Nearby Universities
Easily accessible on foot from UofT and TMU, making it a perfect stop during a downtown Toronto tour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Floating' Sharp Centre
Main OCAD U Campus
An iconic, gravity-defying structure resembling a colorful, oversized birdcage. A must-see for architecture enthusiasts.

Crayon-Like Support Legs
Base of the Sharp Centre
The building's unique 'legs' are designed to resemble giant crayons, adding a playful and artistic touch to the structure.

Interior Design Experience
Inside the Sharp Centre
Experience the contrast between the striking exterior and the surprisingly conventional interior spaces, offering a unique perspective.
Planning Your Visit
Architectural Marvel & Accessibility
Proximity to Other Institutions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the 'Floating' Effect
Experiment with different angles to truly capture the illusion of the Sharp Centre 'floating' above its base.
🚶♀️ Walkable from Nearby Universities
Easily accessible on foot from UofT and TMU, making it a perfect stop during a downtown Toronto tour.
One of the most bizarre buildings I've ever seen, and and the reason I decided to go to Art School is this 'floating' building above the old Ontario College of Art. [ Sharp Centre for Design | OCAD U by Will Alsop. Toronto, Canada. ]
Sharp Centre for Design Toronto.
🖍️ Appreciate the 'Crayon' Legs
Don't miss the whimsical, crayon-inspired support pillars that give the building its unique character.
💡 Interior Contrast
Step inside to experience the surprising normalcy of the interior, a stark contrast to the exterior's avant-garde design.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the 'Floating' Effect
Experiment with different angles to truly capture the illusion of the Sharp Centre 'floating' above its base.
🚶♀️ Walkable from Nearby Universities
Easily accessible on foot from UofT and TMU, making it a perfect stop during a downtown Toronto tour.
🖍️ Appreciate the 'Crayon' Legs
Don't miss the whimsical, crayon-inspired support pillars that give the building its unique character.
💡 Interior Contrast
Step inside to experience the surprising normalcy of the interior, a stark contrast to the exterior's avant-garde design.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Sharp Centre's bold and unique architecture, particularly its 'floating' design and crayon-like support legs. While the exterior is a major draw, many note the surprisingly conventional interior. It's a highly photogenic landmark that adds a distinctive artistic flair to the OCAD University campus and downtown Toronto.
"Beautiful facade"
P
"Open space concept."
Grace Xu
"Great place"
Sérgio Gonçalves
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sharp Centre is easily accessible by public transit. Several streetcar lines run along Dundas Street West and McCaul Street. It's also a short walk from St. Patrick and Osgoode subway stations. For those coming from nearby universities, it's a 15-minute walk from UofT and TMU.
While there isn't dedicated visitor parking for the Sharp Centre, several paid parking garages are available in the surrounding downtown Toronto area. Street parking can be limited and metered.
Yes, OCAD U has bike racks available on campus. It's a great option for exploring downtown Toronto and arriving at the Sharp Centre.
From Union Station, you can take the St. Andrew subway station north on the University-Spadina line to St. Patrick station, then walk west. Alternatively, a streetcar from near Union Station can take you closer.
The Sharp Centre is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring elevators and ramps to ensure visitors can navigate the building.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Sharp Centre for Design is part of OCAD University. While the exterior is publicly visible, access to specific galleries or events within the university may require tickets or be restricted to students and staff.
As it's an active university building, public access hours can vary. It's best to check the official OCAD University website for any public gallery hours or event schedules.
You can generally walk around the public areas of the Sharp Centre and admire the architecture. However, access to classrooms, studios, and administrative offices is typically restricted.
OCAD U often hosts student exhibitions and art shows in its galleries. Check the university's events calendar for current or upcoming exhibitions.
There is no admission fee to view the exterior architecture. If you plan to visit any specific galleries or attend an event, check the OCAD U website for potential fees.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic shots are from street level, looking up at the 'floating' structure. Experiment with angles from Dundas Street West and McCaul Street. The 'crayon' legs also make for great close-up shots.
Photography is generally permitted in public areas of the Sharp Centre for personal use. However, always be mindful of students and staff, and avoid disrupting academic activities.
Daytime offers the best natural light to showcase the building's vibrant colors and unique design. Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can also create dramatic lighting.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around educational institutions. It's advisable to check Transport Canada regulations and OCAD U's policies before attempting drone photography.
For the exterior, a wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale. Consider a tripod for sharper images, especially in lower light. For the interior, adjust ISO and aperture to manage indoor lighting conditions.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
While the exterior is a bold architectural statement, the interior of the Sharp Centre feels like a typical university building. It houses classrooms, studios, and administrative spaces.
OCAD U typically has student-run cafes or cafeterias within its buildings, offering convenient options for a quick bite or coffee. Check OCAD U's campus services for current offerings.
Designed by Will Alsop, the Sharp Centre is celebrated for its innovative and playful approach to educational architecture, featuring a distinctive 'flying' structure supported by colorful 'legs'.
You can explore the public areas of the Sharp Centre and potentially other accessible campus spaces. However, access to student-only areas is restricted.
The Sharp Centre is in the heart of Toronto's cultural district, close to the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), and within walking distance of various galleries and studios.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the interior is primarily functional for students, the exterior itself is a spectacle. Consider it a unique stop on a downtown Toronto family outing. Its central location means you can easily combine it with visits to nearby parks or other child-friendly attractions. Remember to keep a close eye on children around the busy streets.
📸 Architecture Enthusiasts & Photographers
Visit during daylight hours for the best natural light. Consider visiting on a weekend or during off-peak academic times to avoid crowds and have more freedom to capture your desired shots. The surrounding streets offer various vantage points, so take your time to explore and find your perfect angle.
🚶♀️ Urban Explorers & Day-Trippers
Combine your visit with a stroll through the surrounding university district, grab a coffee at a local cafe, or explore nearby galleries. It’s an ideal spot for a quick, impactful stop that adds a splash of color and architectural wonder to your day trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Innovation: The Sharp Centre
Despite its avant-garde exterior, the interior of the Sharp Centre is designed to be a functional and inspiring space for art and design students. It houses studios, classrooms, lecture halls, and administrative offices. The contrast between the bold, almost whimsical exterior and the practical interior is a key aspect of the building's design philosophy. Visitors often note how the experience inside feels surprisingly conventional, a testament to the successful integration of form and function.
The Sharp Centre has garnered significant attention and awards for its innovative design, becoming a symbol of OCAD University and a notable addition to Toronto's architectural heritage. It serves not only as an educational facility but also as a public art installation, inviting contemplation and discussion about the role of design in our cities.
Navigating OCAD U and its Surroundings
Getting to the Sharp Centre is straightforward. Public transportation is highly recommended, with numerous streetcar routes and subway lines serving the area. Several parking garages are also available nearby for those who prefer to drive, though they can be costly. The walkability of the area also makes it ideal for exploring other nearby attractions, such as the Art Gallery of Ontario.
When visiting, remember that the Sharp Centre is an active university building. While the exterior is a public spectacle, access to internal spaces may be limited. However, the university often hosts public exhibitions and events, so checking their schedule can enhance your visit. The surrounding streets offer a variety of cafes and eateries, perfect for a break during your exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit