Sharp Centre for Design - Image 1
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OCAD University Sharp Centre Toronto

4.5
·4 reviews·Toronto, Canada

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for architectural photos

CrowdMedium
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Sharp Centre for Design - Image 1

OCAD University Sharp Centre Toronto

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for architectural photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.5
(4 reviews)

"One of the most bizarre buildings I've ever seen, and the reason I decided to go to Art School is this 'floating' building."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 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.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.5 · 4 reviews

Type

University

♿ Wheelchair accessible

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Floating' Sharp Centre

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

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

Interior Design Experience

Inside the Sharp Centre

Experience the contrast between the striking exterior and the surprisingly conventional interior spaces, offering a unique perspective.

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Planning Your Visit

Architectural Marvel & Accessibility

Prepare to be amazed by the unique 'floating' Sharp Centre for Design. While the exterior is a spectacle, the interior feels surprisingly normal. Plan your visit to appreciate both the iconic architecture and the functional spaces within. Reddit

Proximity to Other Institutions

Conveniently located within walking distance of the University of Toronto and Toronto Metropolitan University, OCAD U's Sharp Centre is a great addition to a downtown Toronto exploration. Consider it a quick detour or a destination in itself. TikTok

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best light for architectural photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Less crowded academic environment
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

15 mins walking distance from UofT and TMU #toronto #downtowntoronto #studyspots #thingstodointoronto #library #torontolibrary #tmu #torontometropolitanuniversity #torontomet #uoft #uoftears #univers...
@jetlagjilll
53.8K likes • 534.4K views

📸 Capture the 'Floating' Effect

Experiment with different angles to truly capture the illusion of the Sharp Centre 'floating' above its base. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkable from Nearby Universities

Easily accessible on foot from UofT and TMU, making it a perfect stop during a downtown Toronto tour. TikTok

reddit.com

Advice for New/Future Students?

I got accepted to illustration a few weeks ago, and I'm planning on going. I was wondering if anyone here had any advice for new or future students or if there is anything you wish you had known when you started.

reddit.com

Best places to chill on campus?

Whether it’s peacefully doing some readings or just resting your eyes after an infuriating studio, what’s everyone’s favourite places to hang out? My personal favourite at the moment is main building 5th floor seating area (in front of the non express elevators) Thoughts?

🖍️ Appreciate the 'Crayon' Legs

Don't miss the whimsical, crayon-inspired support pillars that give the building its unique character. Reddit

💡 Interior Contrast

Step inside to experience the surprising normalcy of the interior, a stark contrast to the exterior's avant-garde design. Reddit

reddit.com

Posted this in the Bizarre Buildings thread and had lots of locals pipe in on how often they overlook the wackiness that is the OCAD Sharp Centre for Design. Almost twenty years old from when the concept for a floating building was approved. What's your thoughts today?

A cool building to look at, but an unfortunately a horrible building to take classes in. There is almost always a bottle neck at the elevators to get upto the top floors any time classes are about to start.

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. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkable from Nearby Universities

Easily accessible on foot from UofT and TMU, making it a perfect stop during a downtown Toronto tour. TikTok

🖍️ Appreciate the 'Crayon' Legs

Don't miss the whimsical, crayon-inspired support pillars that give the building its unique character. Reddit

💡 Interior Contrast

Step inside to experience the surprising normalcy of the interior, a stark contrast to the exterior's avant-garde design. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4 reviews)

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.

"Went there to actually find a geocache and amused to see the structure there! Remarkable!"

Ruvi Perera

"Beautiful facade"

P

"Open space concept."

Grace Xu

What People Like

Iconic 'floating' architecture
Playful crayon legs
Visually striking exterior

What People Dislike

Interior is conventional

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Yes, OCAD U has bike racks available on campus. It's a great option for exploring downtown Toronto and arriving at the Sharp Centre. TikTok

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. TikTok

The Sharp Centre is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring elevators and ramps to ensure visitors can navigate the building. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

OCAD U often hosts student exhibitions and art shows in its galleries. Check the university's events calendar for current or upcoming exhibitions. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 💡 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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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'. Reddit

You can explore the public areas of the Sharp Centre and potentially other accessible campus spaces. However, access to student-only areas is restricted. Reddit

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. TikTok

OCAD University Sharp Centre Toronto (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide