For nearly a century, Dixon Hall has supported newcomers and Toronto communities from its historic Sumach Street headquarters.

 

Serving thousands of people each year, the organization provides settlement, housing, employment, education and food security services from a building long recognized as a cornerstone of community support.

Lebel & Bouliane transformed the aging facility into a modern community hub while preserving its identity and strengthening its role within the neighbourhood.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

The planning strategy carefully balances openness and accessibility with the privacy, dignity and discretion essential to social service delivery.

 
 
 
 
 
 

At the heart of the project, a new community kitchen and flexible gathering space support the agency's Meals on Wheels programme while creating a welcoming place for learning, shared meals and community events. More than a functional space, it fosters trust, belonging and social connection, helping people build relationships before, during and after accessing support services.

 
 
 
 
 

Welcoming public spaces remain visually connected, while confidential intake, counselling and administrative functions protect client privacy and maintain clear sightlines for staff safety. Existing brick walls and structure were selectively restored and revealed, preserving the building's history while preparing it for its next chapter.