The inventory identifies two typologies: architectural massing and floor plan. Massing typology is based on the essential three-dimensional impression of a building. Often urban in scale and impact, the type reflects the general built form.

A building’s massing is often a reflection of a combination of factors such as site location, use, structure, topography, architectural style, floor plan and history of expansion or redevelopment. Massing is the iconic form and volume of the building, the profile against the skyline and core structure of a building. Massing typology is assigned based on current condition and physical evidence. A building might be built in several phases and thus evolve through a number of phases (e.g., a simple meeting hall built as a rectangular hall with gable. Subsequent additions could add a central tower on the front façade and become a central tower. Further additions such as a narthex on the front porch and a single transept and side hall might further convert the overall massing to irregular/asymmetrical.

Floor plans also have typologies and the sites identified in the Ontario’s Places of Worship inventory have been categorized according to common religious architectural plan types – some of which are thousands of years old. Plan typology involves an analysis of circulation patterns, structure and proportions. Like massing typologies, floor plan typologies are distillations of basic organizational principles and architectural strategies. Nonetheless some buildings defy such analysis and are combinations of type or, on occasion, are highly idiosyncratic or irregular.

Typologies provide a means of analyzing like architectural conditions, strategies and designs in two (i.e., floor plan) and three (i.e., massing) dimensions. They are a way to identify formal comparables and well as a means of determining how a building might efficiently be reused for a purpose for which it was not built. For instance, an amphitheatre floor plan in a Methodist church is surprisingly similar to a performing arts venue in its site lines, size and acoustics.

Most buildings – especially those built for religious purposes – are developed within the canon of a specific architectural style. Some are elaborate and ornate while others are more simple and refined. The styles of worship are as varied as the faith groups they represent. Here, you can explore the many styles that appear in places of worship throughout Ontario. Find out, too, what buildings have been built in which style – and surprise yourself at how many different styles you can find in your own community. Learn to spot the difference between Renaissance Revival and Commissioner’s Gothic.

Coming soon!

Ontario has been blessed with a long list of renowned architects. For nearly 400 years, people have been designing and building structures across the province. Some of these same architects are responsible for the designs of imposing public edifices and secular structures, as well as grand and inspirational places of worship. Architects bring with them a long-standing tradition of technical skill, complemented by an innovative artistic vision. Discover more about these skilful innovators and learn how their vision helped shape the places in which we have worshipped for generations.

What is a nave? What is the purpose of a rood screen? What is mihrab? These terms – and many more – can be explored here. Understanding these terms and concepts will assist you in understanding why Ontario’s places of worship were built in a particular style. Form often follows function, but you will discover that many other factors determined a community’s architectural landscape.