CHURCHILL RECREATION CENTRE

PROJECT

Revitalization of Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic & Recreation Centre Plaza

The schematic design for this project vitalizes the under-used green space tucked
beside the Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic & Recreation Centre (SWCAC) and turns it into an active community pocket park with a focus on the youth of the area.

Because of the central location of this small space between many public facilities,
including as a library, sport complex and several schools, its revitalization would
potentially support and enliven all programs within the larger site. Once revitalized,
the plaza will provide efficient access to parking, encourage vital use of the outdoor
green space, and offer cohesive pedestrian connections to the surrounding facilities.

The proposed design allows for an easy connection to the west, including seating
possibilities, and features a combined basketball and skateboard area and a rubber
surface play area for various activities.

Working with the existing slope on site, the different spaces were easily
distinguished through their difference in grade: the path/connection remains on a
higher level (like the main entrance to the pool), while the activity spaces are on a
lower level. The level difference is used to include unique skateboarding
possibilities into the slope, as well as to integrate seating.

A timber ribbon provides continuity between the pathway and active areas and
provides a seating and resting area between the two activity zones. Furthermore,
the timber deck retains the existing grade in this area, making it possible to keep the existing elms on site while maximizing the size of level sport and play area.

SCOPE

Schematic Design
Location:
Calgary, Alberta
Client:
City of Calgary
Designed with Manasc Isaac Architects