Sun Life Centre

Location

Toronto, Canada

Year

1979

The Sun Life Financial Centre’s twin towers (East and West) at King Street West and University Avenue in Toronto opened in 1984. These modernist glass towers were developed by NIOT after demolishing the old Lord Simcoe Hotel.

Project Overview

The Sun Life Financial Centre is a dual-tower Class A office complex located at 150 and 200 King Street West in Toronto’s Financial District. Developed by NIOT in partnership with Sun Life Assurance Company in the 1980s, the Centre features over 1,000,000 sq ft of office space and anchors a key intersection in downtown Toronto.

Historical Significance or Background

Built on the former site of the Lord Simcoe Hotel, the Sun Life Centre marked a turning point in the westward expansion of Toronto’s financial core. Sun Life’s relocation from Montreal to Toronto during this period added historic weight to the development’s importance in shifting Canada’s economic center.

Role of NIOT and Key Individuals

Cecilia Benattar led the initiative, replicating her successful GM Building playbook. Working with WZMH Architects and Sun Life executives, NIOT coordinated zoning, design, and delivery of both towers, with Sun Life occupying a major portion of the East Tower.

Architectural Design and Features

The towers feature reflective silver glass facades, clean lines, and stepped forms that mirror each other across University Avenue. Integrated PATH access and efficient floor plates contributed to their long-term occupancy by financial and legal firms.

Project Timeline and Milestones

1979: Lord Simcoe Hotel closes
1981: Demolition and construction begins
1984: East Tower completed
1985: West Tower completed and PATH access opened

Partnerships or Tenants

Initial anchor: Sun Life Financial. Subsequent tenants included TD Bank, KPMG, and legal firms. NIOT’s partnership with LMS and coordination with city officials was critical to the project's delivery.

Community Impact and Redevelopment Value

The project revitalized the King & University node and contributed to the transformation of the Financial District. It remains a landmark office property nearly 40 years later.

Maps and Location Context

Situated at the corner of King Street West and University Avenue. Direct subway access and PATH connectivity place it at a major downtown transit node.