The Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) will mark World Architecture Day virtually in 2022 with its annual Queen’s Park Picks (QP Picks) program — a collaborative celebration with MPPs across the province who share their passion for local architecture. Each year, a special exhibition at Queen’s Park highlights a selection of outstanding buildings. However, following the adjournment of the legislature, the OAA will be presenting the 2022 Queen’s Park Picks online.

An emerging theme from this year’s QP Picks is community, with numerous buildings playing important roles as spaces where people gather. As public health restrictions continue to ease and members of the public find themselves sharing spaces once again, the important role of community-centered buildings has come to the fore. This year, nominations highlighted some of the province’s most beloved gathering spaces.

Prior to World Architecture Day on the first Monday in October, the OAA invites Ontario MPPs to reflect on the province’s unique architectural legacy and nominate a favorite building within their riding. This year, submissions were received from MPPs from all regions across the province, with nominations by members of all parties.

Nine projects have been selected by a jury of architects for this year’s Queen’s Park Picks online exhibit, including Holy Protection of the Mother of God Ukrainian Catholic Church in Guelph, nominated by MPP Mike Schreiner (Guelph). With close to 1.5 million residents across the country claiming Ukrainian origin (a number that will only increase as those fleeing Ukraine seek safety), Canada has the third-largest Ukrainian population after Ukraine itself and Russia. Built in 1962 by Evhen Gren, this local landmark is expressive of the traditions and heritage of the community it serves, and stands proudly as a symbol of Ukrainian culture in Canada.