Toronto’s destination for artful gifting comes alive with increased accessibility, additional seating, new fixtures, creative prompts, and coffee
Opening November 2026, project led by Toronto firms B+H Architects and CHIL Interior Design
TORONTO — Today, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) announces plans to reimagine its retail experience, providing creative ways for more people to come together. Propelled by a grant from the RBC Foundation Community Spaces Grant program (CSG), this ambitious project will see the Shop, the museum’s 5,068-sq.-foot retail space, become an even more active destination, blending art prints and books, Indigenous-designed products and unique artful gifts with new space for community connections. Overlooking Dundas St. West, access to the Shop and its amenities will be free for all visitors and will not require museum entry.
“Thanks to the support of our partners at RBC Foundation, we’re reimagining both the first and last moments of the AGO experience to be more welcoming, accessible, and inspiring. Visitors will have a comfortable space to connect over coffee before exploring the galleries, and a place to create something of their own before they leave. The Shop will continue to showcase art prints and books, Indigenous-designed products, and unique artful gifts—now within a refreshed environment that brings new energy to the museum retail experience,” said Ros Lawler, Chief Brand & Business Officer, AGO.
"The AGO is a cultural cornerstone in Toronto, and we're proud to support this transformative project. This collaboration reflects RBC's commitment to help build more inclusive and accessible spaces. We believe communities thrive when people have access to places that inspire creativity and bring them together. We look forward to seeing this inspiring space come to life this fall," said Michelle Waite, Regional President of Greater Toronto Region at RBC.
Construction on the project is set to begin in June 2026. The project is being led by B+H Architects and CHIL Interior Design. New wood and glass fixtures will highlight the Shop’s unique mix of artisan jewellery, books, and artful gifting items, while additional seating, a dedicated maker space, a new coffee bar, and access to public washrooms will transform the visitor welcome, creating a light-filled, creative space for community connections.
“We designed the new retail space and café at the AGO as a place for creativity, connection, and exchange. Rooted in principles of community and storytelling, the design invites people to gather, explore, and engage, transforming retail into a shared cultural experience,” said Diana Ellis, Director of Design at CHIL Interior Design.
During construction, the AGO Espresso Bar and Norma Ridley Members' Lounge will continue to offer a variety of food and beverage options, and the Shop will open satellite locations across the museum.
The retail refresh is expected to be completed in November 2026, in anticipation of the opening of the Dani Reiss Modern & Contemporary Gallery in 2027.
Admission to the AGO and all special exhibitions is always free for Ontarians under 25, AGO Members, Annual Passholders, and Indigenous peoples. For more details visit ago.ca.
@AGOToronto | #SeeAGO
ABOUT B+H ARCHITECTS AND CHIL INTERIOR DESIGN
Founded in Toronto in 1953, B+H Architects is a global, award‑winning design and consulting practice delivering architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, planning, and advisory services. The firm is known for combining design excellence with technical rigour to create environments that are functional, enduring, and connected to place.
CHIL Interior Design is an internationally recognized studio with a 50‑year legacy and the dedicated interior design practice of B+H Architects. The studio specializes in hospitality, residential, and experience‑driven environments, with a concept‑led approach rooted in materiality, craft, and authentic experiences.
B+H Architects and CHIL Interior Design are SJ Group companies, part of a global collective of built‑environment specialists delivering integrated, multidisciplinary solutions.
ABOUT THE AGO
An architectural landmark, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of the largest art museums in North America. The AGO Collection of more than 120,000 works of art ranges from cutting-edge contemporary art to significant works by Indigenous and Canadian artists and European masterpieces. The AGO presents wide-ranging exhibitions and programs, including solo exhibitions and acquisitions by diverse and underrepresented artists from around the world. When the Dani Reiss Modern and Contemporary Gallery opens in 2027, it will present modern and contemporary art from Toronto and the world. With its groundbreaking Annual Pass program, the AGO is one of the most affordable and accessible attractions in the GTA. Visit ago.ca to learn more.
The AGO is funded in part by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. Additional operating support is received from the City of Toronto, the Canada Council for the Arts, and generous contributions from AGO Members, donors, and private-sector partners.
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For more information, please contact:
Andrea-Jo Wilson, Manager PR
[email protected]
Wendy So, PR Associate
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