NPS RE-DESIGN......winner announced.
Perhaps it's a bit premature for the coronation, but I'm pretty sure this is a winner. The actual competition docs are way too much reading so hopefully submitting a low res jpeg will still ensure victory. I wonder...
1. The grandest gesture in the re-design is of course the new arch, and I think Revell would have gotten a kick out of it.
A little bit Gateway Arch, a little bit Harbour Bridge... it would be enclosed/jumper-proof and fun to climb. Quite striking, high enough to ensure unobstrusive photo ops of City Hall at ground level, and a heck of a view. Glass 'n steel.
2. "The World" - though not entirely original, there's few places on earth where this would be so very appropriate... "Meeting Place" and all that.
The topographic, embossed effect is all in the design... (it's flat), the world is flush to the new granite pavers so no tripping thank you.
At night (see inset upper right), the topographgic map reveals the fibre optic inlays that carve out the countries of the world in light.
Key cities (like Toronto of course) would have their own little glow... perhaps even backlit city names.
Definitely a not-to-miss geography outing for the whole family.
3. The fountain - doesn't take a rocket scientist to know the square is crying out for a great water show... akin to the Eaton Centre fountain with a timed mega-geyser. They're always fun to wait for.
4. The Podium: new stairs invite us up to the podium with lots to see. The Peace Garden has been relocated here and now we can touch (or punch) council chambers as Revell had intended.
Stairs offer up great sightlines for public events large and small.
The stage remains modular and never sits around unless it has to... stored under the north/east stairs and walkway.
* with the exception of the north/east storage and the south/west washrooms etc. there remains free passage under the walkway/garden into the square.
5. A new pavilion (echoing the council spaceship) is a welcome centre, snack bar, skate rental etc.
Washrooms/change rooms are located nearby, built under the elevated walkway.
6. Sculpture Walk: the west perimeter of the square hosts a new sculpture walk with gardens, the Archer, the Sundial etc. and new full colour glass globe fashioned from all the flags of the world (lower left).. particularly groovy at night.
7. The Elevated Walkway: re-clad but not for walking... it's planted with lots of fleurs and evergreens to ensure all year colour.
Forgive me but... it had to go... the south perimeter of the walkway is demolished so the square opens completely to Queen Street. Come on in damn it.
So there she is. Me likey even if you don't.
