The Dramatic Evolution of Toronto's Skyline

An image comparing the present day with Toronto from only 13 years ago has some comparing the Canadian city to New York in the 1920s.

1 minute read

January 20, 2015, 5:00 AM PST

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell

Emily Williams reports that a photo posted recently on Reddit compared Toronto 2001 and Toronto 2014, to dramatic effect. "The city’s skyline had largely been defined for decades by the CN Tower, which once dominated nearly all by itself," writes Williams. "Now, new office towers and particularly high-rise condominiums, such as the residences at the Ritz Carlton that carve into the sky at a staggering 209 metres, offer some competition — and perhaps even a little magic."

The article includes commentary (soundbites from former Planning Director Paul bedford) on Toronto's expanding role as a global city as well as an infographic that identifies each of the buildings on the skyline.

The image produced surprise on Twitter, including these two pointed responses:

FULL STORY: Toronto skyline’s ‘absolute transformation’ captured by two photos taken 13 years apart

Saturday, January 17, 2015 in National Post

Urban Development Ontario Toronto Global Cities Skyline Building Boom Skyscrapers View More

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.