The Royal Trust Tower on 77 King St. West was landmarked by the Ontario Heritage Foundation in June, 2005. Designed by architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, this tower was one of the original two to reflect the integrity and stature of Toronto’s business district. The first, Toronto-Dominion Bank Tower, of which was erected in 1968. The Royal Trust Tower was completed the following year in 1969. Currently there are five towers of van der Rohe’s style that compose the TD Centre plaza. With 45 stories, the Royal Trust Tower was the second highest. The Royal Trust Tower’s functional intent has been consistent throughout, serving predominantly as an office tower, renting office space for tenants. Its secondary programming consists of an underground concourse retail mall and restaurants that connect to Toronto’s underground walkway, the PATH. Having maintained such functions, the Royal Trust Tower represents a strong infrastructure in a microcosm of the greater Toronto business district. It is currently in the process of revitalization in which to improve the building’s energy efficiency in regards to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and to improve tenant comfort. Improvements will include interior and exterior renovations and mechanical upgrades.
