Faculty of Design
Environmental Design
Jon Ziner-Cohen
UNVEILED - Traces of Toronto's Jewish History
Environmental Design
2023
The city of Toronto has had a complex relationship with its Jewish community for over two hundred years. The history of Toronto and its Jewish inhabitants has included discrimination, widespread antisemitism and riots; yet also tells a story about how an immigrant community not only survived and persevered but flourished.This thesis seeks to follow- and retrace- Jewish movement, life and relevant landmarks throughout the city of Toronto. In order to further delve into this subject matter, it is pertinent to recognize a few truths:There’s not one specific Jewish ‘architectural’ style. While key objects, features and functions are commonplace in synagogues, homes and Jewish spaces around the world, architectural styles differ greatly amongst the diverse Jewish diaspora.In order to appropriately unveil the history of Toronto’s Jewish community through intervention, it is beneficial to design specific to the contexts of each site. This thesis is split into two distinct design approaches: The first regards positive contexts of Jewish life in the city, focused on elevating the community and its perseverance. The second approach regards negative histories and contexts. This approach is about finding remnants of dark histories and uncovering them.Both design approaches are intended to illuminate the Jewish experience in the city.
Work by
Jon Ziner-Cohen
Environmental Design
“My thesis work is focused on the movement and history of Toronto's Jewish community. Considerate design interventions are situated at relevant locations throughout the city. This thesis aims to take...” [More]
Celebrate the work of OCAD U’s class of 2022/2023!