77 Grange // Squig Space

Squig Space is one step closer to becoming a real place! Head over to our blogpost to learn more about the evolution of how we ended up here. 

77 Grange Ave. is located in the heart of Chinatown and is the ideal spot to plant our roots. This has been a dream with several years in the making and we are thrilled it is becoming a reality.

 

Squig Space Concept

Squig Space is a unique space that will bring people together to build community, create connection and pursue curiosity. Located in Chinatown, Toronto, Squig Space will anchor around a ceramics studio that will invite both amateur and professional artists to come together to create. Integrated with the studio space will be a cafe and a restaurant in the evening that we hope will feature local and international chefs. Squig Space will also act as a neighbourhood venue to host community and arts events.

 

The Team Supporting Squig

To make Squig Space a reality, I have built a Team of subject matter experts to accomplish this dream. This team includes:

BAIDA (WXY Studio & SOCA), Architects

Finley & Associates, Business Strategy Advisors 

Liliane Nguyen, Food & Cultural Consultant 

Jeff Zamek, Ceramics Studio Advisor

 

Squig Space Location

Squig Space is located at 77 Grange Ave., in the heart of Kensington-Chinatown, located in central Toronto (see Figure 1). 

   Figure 1: Squig and Kensington

 

Transit Accessibility

Squig is located in a fantastic area that is easily accessible by transit with 4 Metro Stations, 4 Streetcar lines, and municipal parking surrounding the space (see Figure 2). 

Figure 2: Transit Map Around Squig 
 

Current Condition: 

squig-space-current

 

Initial Concept:

squig-space-initial-concepts

       

      Precedent #1 - Blackhorse Workshop, Assemble 

      • open workshop space
      • membership based
      • café space

      Precedent #2 - Granby Winter Garden, Assemble

      • Converted derelict houses into a new shared garden
      • Meeting and event space
      • Accommodation for artist in residence

      granby-winter-garden

       Precedent #3 - Higuma Donuts, CHAB Design 

      • A open, communal lounge space
      • below street level so people can sit and look towards the plants and sky, instead of busy street