Renowned Canadian architect Raymond Moriyama has passed away at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy of iconic buildings that have shaped Canada’s architectural landscape. Moriyama, who started his career by designing his first structure in a B.C. internment camp during the Second World War, went on to create notable landmarks such as the National War Museum, Ottawa’s City Hall, and the Toronto Reference Library.
Moriyama’s death was confirmed by his firm, Moriyama & Teshima Architects, who released a statement requesting privacy for his family. While the cause of death has not been disclosed, the firm acknowledged the loss of a visionary architect and a beloved family member.
Born in Vancouver in 1929, Moriyama co-founded his architecture firm in 1958. He later partnered with Ted Teshima in 1970 to establish Moriyama & Teshima Architects. His contributions to Canadian architecture earned him numerous accolades, including being named a Companion of the Order of Canada in 2009 and winning the Governor General’s Award in Visual and Media Arts in the same year.
According to Stefan Novakovic, a senior editor at Azure Magazine, Moriyama was considered one of the greatest Canadian architects of the 20th and early 21st century. Novakovic highlighted Moriyama’s ability to capture the essence of Canada’s transformation into a multicultural nation in his architectural designs.
Moriyama’s buildings, such as the Toronto Reference Library and the Ontario Science Centre, reflected inclusivity and innovation. The Ontario Science Centre, in particular, revolutionized the concept of a museum by encouraging hands-on engagement with the exhibits. Richard M. Sommer, the former dean of the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design at the University of Toronto, credited the science centre as the building that launched Moriyama’s career.
Moriyama’s journey as an architect was deeply influenced by his experiences as a child in a British Columbia internment camp during World War II. Amidst the adversity, Moriyama sought solace and inspiration in nature, building his first architectural project—a tree house. This defining moment instilled within him the determination to contribute to his community and Canada as an architect.
Raymond Moriyama’s passing marks the end of an era in Canadian architecture. His buildings will continue to serve as testament to his vision and artistic sensibilities. As Canada reflects on his contributions, it is evident that Moriyama’s designs have left an indelible mark on the nation’s architectural heritage.
