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In 2013, the Corporation of Roy Thomson and Massey Hall announced the closing of the performance space at Toronto’s Massey Hall for a revitalization project. The then 119-year-old building would proceed to undergo a two-phase renovation to restore some of the building's historic elements and the construction of new spaces to improve the community-driven centre.

Those Involved
The two-phase restoration process of Massey Hall was led by Marianne Mckenna of KPMB Architects and GBCA Architecture (Goldsmith Borgal and Company Ltd. Architects). KPMB mainly focused on the architecture and interior design aspects, while GBCA focused on the heritage impact and restoration perspective.

Phase One
Phase one of the Massey Hall Restoration began in 2013 and was completed in 2017. This 16,000 ft² project consisted of the deconstruction of the adjacent Albert Building in order to prepare for the foundation of the new tower that was planned to be constructed in Phase Two.

Phase two
The second and primary phase of the renovation was a 124,000ft² project with a budget of up to $113 million including contributions of $30 million from the Ontario and Canadian Governments. The main aspects of the second phase included a full restoration of the interior and exterior elements and the construction of the new addition. The phase was completed in 2022. However, Massey Hall reopened for performances in November 2021.

Phase Two Full restoration
The renovation of the interior of Massey Hall incorporated upgrading the technology by the implementation of mechanized removable seating to provide space for a standing general-admission area during performances and enhancing the audio and lighting systems. This refurbishment allowed for more flexibility for a variety of performances. The audio enhancements included diminishing the echo effect of sound that occurs during performances by introducing sound-absorbing plaster into the space.

The refurbishment also incorporated restoring the mixed architectural styles of Moorish, Palladian revival, and Art Deco found within the interior of the building, while also ensuring the structural integrity of the building. The main idea was to make sure the Hall looked as if nothing had changed. This refurbishment procedure included the original wood, steel beams and restorers, repairing details, and making new plaster molds of arch features if they were beyond repair. The ceiling had previously been covered in chicken wire in order to protect the audience below from debris. The renovation allowed for audiences to see the repaired detailed ceiling. The interior renewal also comprised of keeping the Hall’s original brass railings and new seats, which mimicked the originals. The renovation moreover, focused on re-establishing the 100 original stained-glass windows that had been concealed with plywood since the 1950s due to sound disturbances reasons. The refurbishment of the panes involved the fitting of noise defensive shades for the glass during concerts and performances. The renovation also facilitated the updating of Massey Hall to meet current Canadian accessibility standards. These updates included a Passerelle to connect the old Massey Hall to the addition and an elevator allowing individuals easy access to the upper levels. The grand stage was rebuilt and lifted to provide better visibility from the upper gallery seats. The restoration additionally re-established new backstage artist and performer accommodations.

Phase Two New Addition
The construction of the new southern seven-story glass addition, named the Allied Music Centre was designed to accommodate more support spaces for the hall. Accessible through the outdoor passerelles, the addition contains rehearsal spaces, a performance studio, a lounge, new washrooms, dressing rooms for performers, and a loading dock for equipment and deliveries. It additionally contains the Deane Cameron Recording Studio, which gets its name from the late Massey Hall CEO. Located in the basement is a bar that has another performance space as well. The new modern glass passerelles leading to the tower hang off the side of Massey Hall and contrast with the original brick structure creating a connection between the new and the old. This state-of-the-art facility was designed and designated to be a space for community and artistic development and outreach initiatives.