OCAD University Sharp Centre, Toronto - View of the Berlin TV Tower directly from the Moabit Bridge, located next to Bellevue Palace.
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OCAD University Sharp Centre Toronto

4.3
·3 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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OCAD University Sharp Centre, Toronto - View of the Berlin TV Tower directly from the Moabit Bridge, located next to Bellevue Palace.

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.

4.3
(3 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

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.

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

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. ]

reddit.com

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. Reddit

💡 Interior Contrast

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

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

4.3
(3 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.

"Beautiful facade"

P

"Open space concept."

Grace Xu

"Great place"

Sérgio Gonçalves

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

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Sharp Centre for Design offers a visually exciting experience for families. Kids will be fascinated by the building's unusual shape and the giant, colorful 'crayon' legs. It's a great spot for a quick photo opportunity and to spark conversations about art and architecture. Reddit

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. TikTok

📸 Architecture Enthusiasts & Photographers

For architecture buffs and photographers, the Sharp Centre for Design is a dream. The 'floating' box and the vibrant 'crayon' legs provide endless opportunities for creative shots. Reddit Experiment with different perspectives, from wide-angle street views to close-ups of the pixelated facade and the unique support structures. TikTok

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. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Urban Explorers & Day-Trippers

The Sharp Centre is a perfect addition to any downtown Toronto itinerary. Its unique architecture makes it a memorable landmark. Reddit It's conveniently located within walking distance of other major attractions like the Art Gallery of Ontario and easily accessible via public transit. TikTok

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Innovation: The Sharp Centre

The Sharp Centre for Design at OCAD University is a landmark of contemporary architecture, designed by the acclaimed British architect Will Alsop. Its most striking feature is the 'flying' box that appears to hover above the ground, supported by a series of brightly colored, crayon-like legs. This design was a deliberate choice to create a visually dynamic and memorable structure that stands out in the urban landscape. The building's exterior is clad in a mosaic of black and white pixels, further enhancing its unique aesthetic. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Navigating OCAD U and its Surroundings

The OCAD University campus, particularly the Sharp Centre, is situated in a vibrant downtown Toronto location, making it easily accessible and a hub for creative activity. Its proximity to other major educational institutions like the University of Toronto and Toronto Metropolitan University means the area is always buzzing with student life. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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