Honourable Mention – Buildings
Meeting Place
Address: 588 Queen St. West
Architect: Levitt Goodman Architects
Landscape Design Company: Perennial Gardens
Artists: Scott Childs, Steve Marshal & Beth Halstead
Owner/Developer: Saint Christopher House
Peter Ellis
The "Meeting Place" challenges some commonly held notions, particularly the belief that additions to historic buildings must imitate the style of the original. Here is an addition that borrows nothing from the classicism of the original bank, indeed contradicts it, yet the fusion of old and new enriches both. The urban design issue here is that cities must preserve their past yet not stifle their future, and that, in sensitive hands, a radical future can instill life into a forgotten past. I hope that city planners and design review boards take notice and stop enforcing 19th century solutions on 21st century needs and values.
Larry Beasley
The respectful restoration of the heritage facades coupled with a completely contemporary addition is especially well done. Within a limited budget, a garden space with real identity has been created and a tough social program has been accommodated. This is a good urban design in a difficult setting at the service of society.
David Oleson
This project is an excellent example of "recycling", in architectural terms. The historic bank building has been renovated for social support programs, on a prominent city corner. The new addition to the rear is uncompromisingly contemporary in style and yet is a perfect complement to the original building. The artistic attitude to the design of necessary elements in the courtyard enriches this project.
Donna Hinde
Design is very respectful of the existing building. The newly created open space has only a few artful pieces that create a very pleasant outdoor addition to the facility.
