Wellesley Social Services Centre

G architects was engaged by the City of Toronto’s Facilities Management Division to provide full architectural and consulting services for the interior renovation of the Toronto Employment and Social Services (TESS) facility at 111 Wellesley Street East. The project modernized a cornerstone municipal service centre serving over 16,000 clients annually, improving accessibility, functionality, and the overall client experience for both City and provincial staff.

The multi-phase renovation involved the reconfiguration of the ground, second, and third floors within the existing City-owned building. The scope included the creation of a new public-facing employment reception centre at street level, as well as redesigned staff work areas with upgraded kitchens, collaborative zones, and common amenities on the upper floors. The fourth floor remained occupied throughout, requiring careful phasing and logistical planning to maintain uninterrupted operations.

G architects led all architectural, interior design, and coordination activities in collaboration with WSP (M+E), the City’s Corporate IT, Security, and Ergonomics teams, and representatives from the Province of Ontario. Services encompassed feasibility assessment, design development, tender documentation, construction administration, and comprehensive move management. The team ensured compliance with AODA standards, the Toronto Green Standard, and the City’s Office Modernization and Accessibility Design Guidelines, integrating both municipal and provincial requirements into a unified workplace environment.