Brunswick-College Parkette has the potential to serve its community and complement its surroundings in a way not realized in the current design. Improved seating and a central focus will vastly improve the usability, joy, and sense of place one would experience in the park. The new design utilizes simple and affordable benches that weave in and out of existing trees, crossing with new tree planters of native species, creating a peaceful place of meeting and relaxation.
A new cafe to the east of the park would enliven the corner, while allowing the park to double as a patio. A new employment centre would address the issue of homelessness, while speaking to the park's past.
The central feature is a solar tree, comprised of photovoltaic panels on a steel tree frame. It would collect energy to light the park at night, while reminding us of the urgent need for sustainable energies.
(From competitor's text)
The central feature is a solar tree, comprised of photovoltaic panels on a steel tree frame. It would collect energy to light the park at night, while reminding us of the urgent need for sustainable energies. A simple elegant design that was very popular with visitors to the display. The bunker wall is lowered to bench height and used as such. (Benches shown will need to be divided to prevent sleeping on and the edges of those that are straight will need to be fitted with skateboard stops - if required by Parks and KHC.) The existing trees are set in shallow, curbed pits in the pavement that are fringed with curved, backless benches which may not be very comfortable for sitting on. (As well as backs, they need to be divided and fitted with skateboard stops.) A solar tree provides power for lighting (which may not be adequate in winter or if lighting needs to be delivered at its present intensity.)
(From jury comments)
