Doka helps raise Toronto's newest landmark

As a trusted formwork partner, Doka delivered fully integrated and custom-engineered solutions for core, façade, and column construction, answering the project’s bold architectural vision with precision, speed, and safety.

Engineering Elegance: Custom Systems for a Landmark Structure
From the outset, One Bloor West posed unique structural and logistical challenges – from installing oversized protection screen systems on mega-columns to transporting massive steel components through Toronto’s dense urban core. Doka responded with advanced planning, intense coordination, and the deployment of some of its most sophisticated systems:

• SKE100 Climbing Platforms were used to support the eight massive mega-columns that form the building’s structural backbone.
• Doka’s SCP (Self-Climbing Platform) system powered efficient, safe core wall construction, with a custom gantry crane used for lobby slab installation.
• Top 50 modular formwork ensured flexible and reliable shaping of the building’s unique geometry for both the core and columns.
• Xclimb 60 loading platforms provided secure material staging areas at height, while Xclimb 60 balcony protection screens safeguarded crews and pedestrians alike.
• A fully enclosed, custom hydraulic protection sreen – suspended from a truss and engineered by Doka’s in-house technical team – allowed installation of exterior glazing while maintaining worker safety and weather protection.

“A particularly complex aspect of the project was the installation of the custom protection screens, the largest screens Doka has ever designed,” shares Olegs Sokolovs, Head of Technical Department for Doka Canada. “This required enormous accuracy and commitment from all involved in the process, starting from the design, production, assembly and all the way to delivery, lifting, and anchoring to the structure. The precision and coordination from our team ensured that these screens were installed safely and efficiently, providing maximum protection for workers and the surrounding busy streets."

And the commitment to delivering world-class service didn’t stop with custom engineering. All major systems, including the SCP platforms and Top 50 formwork, were pre-assembled off-site by the Doka team, minimizing on-site labor and expediting setup. Doka’s field service team remained deeply involved from installation through commissioning, ensuring flawless integration of hydraulic systems and on-site components.

Setting a New Standard for Collaboration and Innovation
The success of One Bloor West is not just a reflection of engineering excellence – it’s a testament to partnership and trust. Doka’s close collaboration with the developers, contractors, and city officials helped ensure timely delivery and installation without disrupting one of Canada’s busiest intersections.

“One Bloor West is a landmark project for Canada that embodies excellence in engineering, craftsmanship, and collaboration,” says Gunnar Falke, CEO of Doka Canada. “I am incredibly proud of the way our systems performed under these tough jobsite conditions as well as the dedication and hard work shown by the Doka Canada team. Through close partnership with our customers, they successfully navigated complex technical and logistical challenges to help bring this iconic tower to life.”

As One Bloor West climbs to its final height, it serves as a symbol of modern architectural ambition and the critical role that smart, adaptable formwork systems play in making visions of this scale a reality.