TPA Wins Award of Excellence for Thelma / Spadina Carpark June 29, 2016

Originally opened in 1987 as a 43 space surface parking lot, TPA Carpark was recently redeveloped into a 58 space parking facility combined with a new public seating/meeting area. Located in Toronto’s Forest Hill South neighbourhood, the project was completed with the collaborative efforts of the Forest Hill Village Business Improvement Area (FHVBIA), Our Cool Blue Architects Inc. and the TPA. The redevelopment has not only helped to alleviate parking demand of the nearby businesses but the public seating area design incorporates the streetscape vision of the FHVBIA Masterplan.

Many elements were incorporated into the final design including: a bioswale and permeable pavers to facilitate sustainable stormwater management; a tree planting layout to reduce urban heat island effect; a planting scheme chosen for its drought tolerance and seasonal interest; multiple pedestrian connections; as well as various seating opportunities situated along the western portion of the facility.

The completed project has been met with praise by the local community and has provided inspiration for other TPA projects currently in their design phase.