Union Chicken

As the country’s busiest transit hub, Union Station hosts more than 300,000 daily commuters as well as visitors from the surrounding downtown areas, such as the fnancial, theatre and entertainment districts. In the midst of massive transformations, the station is poised to realize a new identity as both a transit hub and a vibrant civic and hospitality destination. DesignAgency was invited to create one of the station’s frst restaurants, Union Chicken.

While dining in railway stations is common in many other cities, Toronto’s station previously only had fast food and takeout offerings. As a result, DesignAgency’s challenge in designing Union Chicken was to establish an environment that would entice both the station’s visitors and beyond, making both the train station and Toronto’s downtown dining landscape more interesting and inviting.

From the corridor, Union Chicken presents a warm, aged character that seems to have evolved with time. The entire length of its façade is composed from industrial windows of different materials providing a transition between the station and the interiors. Inside, a mix of rustic-inspired elements, including reclaimed wood and bead-board paneling, burlap wallpaper, mixed brick and tile, vintage wine crate shelving, and a prominent copper-hood rotisserie add eclecticism to the relaxed setting. The eat-in bar counter and casual furnishings invite customers to enjoy the comfort of a relaxed, kitchen-side experience.

DesignAgency