Art Gallery of Ontario Expands with New Five-Floor Addition Set to Open in September 2027

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The Art Gallery of Ontario's new expansion will feature a modern gallery for nearly 400 artworks, fully funded through donations and government support.

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) has announced that its ambitious five-floor expansion will welcome visitors starting on September 25, 2027. This new addition will encompass 40,000 square feet, dedicated to showcasing the gallery’s expanding collection of art. The latest space, named the Dani Reiss Modern and Contemporary Gallery, will feature close to 400 works by Indigenous, Canadian, and international artists, reflecting the diverse narratives present in contemporary art.
Launched in 2022, the expansion project gained significant momentum following a generous $35-million donation from Dani Reiss, the chairman and CEO of Canada Goose. The AGO confirmed that the expansion is now fully funded, with financial backing from both the federal and provincial governments, alongside contributions from private donors, ensuring that the ongoing operating costs will be adequately covered.
The design and construction of the project are being spearheaded by a collaborative team that includes Diamond Schmitt, Selldorf Architects, and Two Row Architect. This new structure will not only enhance the gallery’s footprint but will also provide stunning views of Toronto’s Grange Park, seamlessly connecting to the existing building designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry.
A notable aspect of the new expansion is its commitment to sustainability. The AGO has stated that the addition will operate without burning fossil fuels and has received Zero Carbon Building Design certification. This makes it a pioneering cultural institution in Canada of its size to achieve such a designation, emphasizing a growing trend within the construction sector towards environmentally responsible building practices.
This expansion marks the seventh major enlargement of the museum since its inception in 1900, reflecting the AGO’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its facilities and collections to better serve the public and engage with the community. The gallery's efforts to integrate modern design with sustainable practices are indicative of broader trends in the construction industry, where environmental considerations are becoming increasingly important in new projects.

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