History & Culture – Allen Lambert Galleria
“The crystal cathedral of commerce” otherwise known as Allen Lambert Galleria was designed by Spanish architect Santiagao Calatrava, who won an international competition to satisfy Toronto public art requirements.
Construction of this stunning 6 story tall pedestrian thoroughfare was completed in 1990.The glass and steel atrium connects Bay Street and Sam Pollock Square in the heart of Toronto’s financial district.
Calatrava’s signature organic style is most noticeable in the vaulted ceiling. The branching, intertwining arches are inspired by nature, intended to evoke the feeling of walking among a canopy of trees
The galleria is a popular Toronto landmark for tourism as well as film production and television back drops. It is particularly eye-catching in the daytime, when light shines through the steel canopy and creates intricate shadows that shift throughout the day.