Toronto’s Queens Quay has a new addition of wrapped utility boxes, adding vibrancy, colour, and wayfinding to Toronto’s waterfront neighbourhood.
Utility boxes are the metallic structures sitting on sidewalks, typically the size of a small refrigerator. The boxes are essential to the BIA’s operations, safeguarding electrical equipment and other components, and while the utility boxes are important, the structures can be an eyesore and a lightning rod for graffiti.
However, the utility boxes offer a unique opportunity for placemaking and public art by wrapping the boxes in designs. In addition to the aesthetic component, the Waterfront BIA took this opportunity to add wayfinding elements to the design.
With the waterfront being a major tourist destination, adding more wayfinding will help visitors navigate and encourage them to explore nearby landmarks.
Utility Box Art: Adding Vibrancy to Toronto’s Harbourfront
In the summer of 2025, the Waterfront BIA wrapped five utility boxes along Queens Quay with unique designs by artist Madeline Yee.
Each utility box has a unique design, “inspired by the landmarks and activities surrounding each utility box,” says Madeline Yee, “I’ve lived along Toronto’s Waterfront and walked along Queens Quay many times, and wanted to incorporate all of the places and people that make it so special.”
To create the designs, Madeline Yee works primarily on her tablet throughout the entire process, “I try to use bright, warm colours to invite viewers in, and flowing compositions with soft textures that add a bit of fun and whimsy to any scene.
Another important purpose of the wraps includes deterring vandals. They’re made from anti-graffiti material, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance, and by adding a beautiful art piece, vandals are less likely to ruin these boxes with graffiti than if it was left as a blank canvas. While the wraps can last up to ten years, the Waterfront BIA plans to refresh designs periodically to keep the streetscape lively and engaging.
The utility boxes are located on the south side of Queens Quay at Bay Street, York Street, Robertson Crescent, Rees Street, and Spadina Avenue.
About The Waterfront BIA:
Representing businesses along the Queens Quay corridor, the Waterfront Business Improvement Area (WBIA) is committed to supporting businesses, unifying the Waterfront and engaging the community. Activities of the WBIA include representing the area on key policy and advocacy issues, making targeted public realm improvements and highlighting the area’s vibrancy with activations and daily promotion online.