The Signs That Define Toronto is a new book from Spacing and ERA Architects that attempts to document the culture of Toronto through its many signs. Cities are shaped by their signage, from the iconic signs that dominate the streetscape to the more modest signs of small businesses.

Kurt Kraler and Philip Evans offer a glimpse into the history, culture, and stories of the city of Toronto as told through its unique signage. Their Heritage Toronto-nominated book is packed full of gorgeous historic and vintage photography and is accompanied by thoughtful essays from over 20 different contributors on the social and cultural value of the city’s signage.

Purchase your copy of The Signs that Define Toronto here.

About the Speakers

Kurt Kraler is a registered Architect (OAA) and Head of Signage at ERA Architects. His work at ERA includes a wide variety of projects from the conservation and adaptive reuse of existing buildings and signs to the design of new additions and urban infill buildings. Kurt completed his Master of Architecture (MArch) degree at the University of Waterloo where his thesis work was recognized with the AIA Henry Adams Medal for academic excellence. Through his thesis research, Kurt developed an interest in historic signs and the stories behind them.

Philip Evans is a registered Architect (OAA) and Principal at ERA Architects. He has led a range of projects in the office and advises collaborators on the management of cultural, heritage, and property assets. He sees the 21st-century challenges facing smaller communities as unique opportunities for cultural revival and transformation and has founded two ERA initiatives that encapsulate this view. Both Culture of Outports and Culture of Small look to support more resilient communities across Canada, through people-first placemaking and engagement.