Toronto is undergoing a 'remarkable transformation', says Charles Birnbaum, and unlike most large scale redevelopment efforts, landscape architecture is leading the way. With abundant photos Birnbaum surveys the new works framing the city's growth.
"If you want to see why cities are centers of energy, look at the remarkable transformation underway in Toronto (and avoid the sideshow involving the embattled current mayor). Canada's largest city, which recently surpassed Chicago to become North America's fourth most populous, is amid the most ambitious level of development in generations," notes Birnbaum. "Moreover, landscape architecture, often the last and frequently underfunded component in development projects, is leading the charge in places like the city's Waterfront district with innovative and inspiring new work by Claude Cormier + Associés, West 8, Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates and others."
Accompanying this transformation is "a palpable shift in attitude and awareness," described by landscape architect Janet Rosenberg. "The city is more enlightened, there's a recognition that public space is important and that good design makes good business. Throughout the city there are little initiatives that collectively have turned into one big positive thing."
"'It's our time,' Rosenberg confidently declared, 'We have the momentum.'"
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UCLA Lewis Center for Regional Policy Studies
Mpact (formerly Rail~Volution)
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
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Great Falls Development Authority, Inc.
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