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100 Adelaide Street West, Crown Lighting Upgrade

General Info

About the Project

Project Description

In the heart of downtown Toronto, the EY Tower stands as a dialogue between heritage and innovation. Its Art Deco podium speaks to craftsmanship and legacy, while the modern glass tower reflects a city in constant motion. With the introduction of new colour-changing crown lighting, the building now has a renewed voice, one that celebrates connection, creativity, and the transformative power of light.

The EY Tower has long been a defining element of Toronto’s skyline. While the 14-storey podium anchors the building in history, the 40-storey tower above represents progress. Several years after completion, the crown, an often overlooked yet striking architectural feature, was ready for transformation. The objective was clear: honour the tower’s legacy while introducing a contemporary, adaptable lighting solution.

Working in collaboration with Oxford Properties, Mulvey & Banani Lighting brought the crown to life using state-of-the-art RGBW fixtures paired with a dynamic DMX control system. The original lighting was static and functional, offering little flexibility. The new approach allows for incremental colour control and independent zoning, enabling the crown to shift seamlessly between everyday white illumination and vibrant colour scenes for holidays, civic moments, and special events. Lighting became more than illumination, it became a means for the tower to engage with the city.

Equally important was sustainability. The upgraded system reduces energy consumption by approximately two-thirds, demonstrating that visual impact and environmental responsibility can coexist. Careful consideration was given to fixture selection, mounting, and long-term durability to ensure lasting performance.

Today, the revitalized crown redefines the EY Tower’s presence on the skyline. It bridges past and present, transforming a familiar landmark into a dynamic symbol of Toronto’s evolving urban identity, honouring history while lighting the way forward.

Scope

Electrical Engineering

Lighting Design

Final Budget

Primary Sector

Corporate/Commercial & Mixed Use

Secondary Sector

Mixed Use


Client

Oxford Properties Group

Architect

Project Team

Mulvey & Banani, Mulvey & Banani Lighting

Key Individuals

Eric Cornish

Stephen Kaye

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