Ontario Court of Justice - Toronto

The Story

The Ontario Court of Justice – Toronto stands as a bold new chapter in the evolution of Ontario’s justice system. Strategically located just north of Toronto’s City Hall, this 19-storey (two below grade) architectural landmark amalgamated six Ontario Court of Justice criminal courthouse locations and other associated offices into one centralized, purpose-built facility. Designed for efficiency, accessibility, and security, the courthouse features 73 judicial hearing rooms, advanced audio-visual systems, and a single secure point of entry.

At its core is Ontario’s first Indigenous Learning Centre—an inclusive, forward-thinking space that fosters education, reflection, and reconciliation. With barrier-free design and cutting-edge technology, the courthouse is more than a building—it’s a symbol of progress, equity, and community engagement.

Development and Equity

As developer, sole equity provider, and financial advisor, EllisDon Capital Inc. led the consortium throughout procurement, financing, design development, construction, and transition planning for operations, providing leadership and a single point of contact with IO and MAG.

This project reflects EllisDon’s ability to lead complex developments with clarity, confidence, and impact.

Facilities Services

A joint venture between EllisDon Facilities Services and AtkinsRéalis ensures the courthouse operates and is maintained seamlessly for a 30-year term.

The facility management plan for the project includes the following services:

• Plant Services
• Utilities Management Services
• Roads and Grounds Maintenance Services
• General Management Services
• Help Desk Services
• Pest Control Services
• Security & Surveillance Services
• Parking
• Environmental and Sustainability Services
• Waste Management & Recycling Services
• Cleaning Services
• Food Services
• Emergency Management
• FF&E Services
• Special Projects Services

Every detail is managed with precision to create a safe, clean, and efficient environment.

Furniture, Equipment& Design

EllisDon’s Furniture, Equipment& Design (FED) team transformed the courthouse interior with thoughtful design and flawless execution.

The FED team procured furniture and equipment for all administrative, courtroom and public spaces, supplied high-density shelving systems and museum-grade display cases, and relocated records, physical evidence and exhibits to the new consolidated courthouse location, ensuring secure handling and an organized transfer.

From layout to logistics, the FED team delivered a turnkey solution that supports justice with elegance and efficiency.

Sustainability

Designed with purpose and precision, the courthouse integrates environmental features that contribute to measurable performance improvements.

• Estimated 40% energy savings compared to a calculated baseline, achieved through smart design and building systems.
• 85% of construction waste diverted from landfills.
• Rooftop solar panels generating clean energy.
• Ice storage cooling system supports efficient temperature regulation and peak load management.
• Water-saving fixtures cut consumption by nearly one-third, based on manufacturer specifications and usage modeling.

Achievements

• National Award of Merit Category: Environmental, Social and Governance, Canadian Council for Public-Private Partnerships’ (“CCPPP”), 2024
• LEED Gold Certification, 2024
• Accessibility Certified Gold, Rick Hansen Foundation, 2023
• Top 100 Biggest Infrastructure Projects, ReNew Canada, 2023
• Silver Award for Development, CCPPP, 2019
• Top 100 Biggest Infrastructure Projects, ReNew Canada, 2018