Seven hundred University Avenue. That’s the address. But everyone knows it as the Intact Centre. A towering presence it stands a testament to Toronto’s ambition.
This isn’t just any office building. The Intact Centre has a rich history. Originally constructed in 1976 it served as the headquarters for Ontario Hydro. Later it became home to Ontario Power Generation. Now it houses both OPG and Intact Financial. The University of Toronto even has departments within its walls. Statistical Science and Sociology. They share this impressive space.
Intact Centre isn’t just about office space. It’s also a key player in climate adaptation. Intact Financial Corporation established the Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation at the University of Waterloo. This center focuses on finding solutions to extreme weather events like flooding and wildfires. They’ve invested millions in helping communities adapt. Supporting practical solutions for a changing climate.
In 2022 Intact’s Municipal Climate Resiliency Grants program funded ten projects across Canada. Projects ranged from flood risk portals to rain garden programs. Even FireSmart home action rebates. All aimed at making communities more resilient.
The building itself is impressive. Designed by Kenneth R. Cooper with Adamson Associates as the architect of record. It boasts twenty floors over 1 million square feet. Seventeen elevators whisk occupants between them. Its glass exterior reflects Toronto’s vibrant energy. A symbol of progress in the city’s core.
KingSett Capital Inc now owns the Intact Centre. It was sold in 2017. The proceeds went to Ontario’s Trillium Trust. This trust funds infrastructure projects throughout the province. The sale marked a new chapter in the building’s story. Yet it retains its significance.
So here you stand before the Intact Centre. A building that speaks of power energy and a commitment to a sustainable future. It’s more than just bricks and glass. It’s a story of innovation adaptation and Toronto’s unwavering spirit.