CIBC Square II

Standing at 243 meters (798 feet), this 50-storey tower is part of the CIBC Square complex, known for its innovative architecture and sustainability features, including Canada's first elevated park, which connects the two towers above a rail corridor. The project, led by EllisDon, aims for LEED Platinum certification and represents the forefront of urban commercial construction.

Efficiency Meets Innovation
Doka’s advanced formwork and scaffolding solutions have been crucial to the rapid progress of CIBC Square II, achieving a one-week cycle per floor despite the challenges of an urban, space-constrained site. This project follows the successful completion of its twin tower, 81 Bay Street, and demonstrates Doka's continued expertise in high-rise construction.

"The cantilevered, atypical slab edge design, which changed the floor plate at each level, was our biggest challenge in supporting the windscreen,” said Brian Walton, General Superintendent for EllisDon. “The Doka team was able to provide an efficient solution while reducing the imposed loads on the structure.”

Overcoming Construction Challenges
For the CIBC Square II project, Doka delivered a combination of tailored formwork and scaffolding systems, including Automatic Climbing Formwork and Wall Formwork. These systems enabled efficient pouring and climbing of the concrete core. Notably, the building features the first Xclimb 60 Protection Screen with Xbright inlay in Canada, providing full safety enclosure and protection from wind and debris, while allowing natural light into the work area.

Doka's engineering team provided solutions to address the project’s complex challenges. "We engineered versatile, hingeable platforms to pass the structural steel embeds and Top 50 wall formwork panels. This could seamlessly adapt to core transitions on certain levels, ensuring smooth construction progress at critical points,” explained Olegs Sokolovs, Technical Manager for Doka Canada.

Building in downtown Toronto presented logistical challenges due to space limitations and the busy urban environment. Gunnar Falke, CEO of Doka Canada, highlighted the team’s efficiency in adapting to these conditions: "Working in a dense urban environment, particularly one as busy as downtown Toronto, required Doka to implement solutions that minimized crane usage and maximized workspace efficiency. Doka’s pre-assembly services and custom platform add-ons kept the project on track despite its tight schedule and challenging site conditions."

A Milestone for Sustainability
CIBC Square II is designed to achieve LEED Platinum certification and incorporates Canada's first elevated park, spanning one acre and connecting the fourth floors of the two towers. This innovative green space enhances community engagement while adding a unique feature to the Toronto skyline. The project integrates WELL Building Standards™ and WIRED™ certifications, ensuring that the building meets the highest standards of wellness, sustainability, and connectivity.