A BUILDING THAT RECALLS THE ICONIC GEOMETRY OF CLASSICAL PARKS AND PAVILIONS
Reflecting its roots in the traditional English landscape park, Borden Park's path design comprises axial and curving paths that merge into circuses at key points in the park. The circularity of the amenity pavilion amplifies this pattern while also engaging in a formal relationship with the park's other strongly geometric structures - such as the bandshell and carousel - that were part of the park's historic infrastructure.
A BUILDING THAT CULTIVATES AMUSEMENT AND WONDER
ln the past, thousands of people would gather in Borden Park on Sundays to picnic, listen to concerts, and enjoy rides on the carousel and roller coaster. While some of these activities have been phased out over time, the new pavilion will kindle and sustain the park's historic tradition of play. Its form and expressive wood structure evoke iconic toys such as merry-go-rounds and drums, while floor-to-ceiling glazing allows captivating views into, through, and out from the pavilion. Where privacy is required, polished stainless steel panels will reflect the surrounding park and seasons in striking triangular facets. The potential for younger users to visually engage with the reflective cladding will further animate the playful quality of the facade.
A PLAN THAT IS READ IN THE ROUND
The plan of the pavilion is designed for the greatest possible openness and flexibility. The enclosed programs of the pavilion (washrooms, janitorial/mechanical rooms, and concession) are organized on either side of the main vestibule and positioned to maximize uninterrupted views through the building. At the centre of the plan is a generous, unobstructed public space with a sculptural figure of the structure at its centre. The multipurpose room to the south-west can be opened or closed by means of large sliding panels to accommodate large and small gatherings. The radial footprint of the building also encompasses a generous covered exterior terrace on the west. The terrace acts as an inter¬mediary threshold between the pavilion and the park, blurring the boundary between inside and out.
A LANDSCAPE THAT EXTENDS THE VISUAL PLAY OF THE BUILDING
The landscape expands the usable and visual foot¬print of the pavilion into the park. The porous, radially patterned surface, populated by interac¬tive and dynamic public art, extends the public sphere of the pavilion and can support a broad range of programmed and unprogrammed events.
A BUILDING THAT IS INFORMED BY THE PAST BUT THAT SPEAKS TO THE FUTURE
While the form of the pavilion is derived from its historic forebears, the construction of the pavilion will be undertaken with a view to our children. The design incorporates sustainable materials such as sustainably sourced lumber and post-industrial recycled stainless steel panels, and features passive ventilation, rain har¬vesting capabilities, and a biofilter system for reusing grey water. In both its appearance and function, the building will communicate the value and beauty of sustainable design to its users.
(Competitor's text)
Simple, but appealing image
Poetic presentation
References carousel that was once located in the park, respecting intent of park master plan
Good visibility and transparency
Slightly over-sized, but can be down-sized to meet budget and still keep design intent
(From jury report)
22 scanned / 6 viewable
- Presentation Panel
- Perspective
- Plan
- Axonometric Drawing
- Photograph
- Plan