During the concept-phase of this development, PUBLIC WORK conceived a compelling public realm vision able to support a new, mixed use development in the heart of the densifying King-Spadina Area in downtown Toronto.

The approach is threefold. First, the introduction of a new public realm element—the ‘ring’— injects new life into the heritage park with a light touch to preserve the legacy old growth trees. This multifunctional seating, water and skating feature adds new opportunities for interaction and programming for the 21st Century, while reflecting the circular walkway from the park’s original 19th century layout. Second, a new system of public realm connections is established to create a more porous block, in the tradition of the King-Spadina laneways. These new lanes will connect destinations through the site, while establishing a new scale of public realm to invite public interaction in the heart of the district. Third, remnants and traces of the site’s past are revived in the textures and details of the public realm, establishing a contemporary language in tune with the rich legacy of ornament from the site’s Victorian past.