The revitalized Nathan Phillips Square includes the renewal of infrastructure underneath the plaza, as well as the addition of a new theatre, skate and snack pavilion, relocated Peace Garden, and an extensive green roof on the podium. Landscape and seating areas at the perimeter encourage movement under the surrounding walkways and into the Square. Photo by Chris Pommer.
 
LOCATION Toronto, Ontario
ARCHITECTS PLANT Architect Inc. in joint venture with Perkins+Will Canada (formerly Shore Tilbe Irwin & Partners Inc.)
Toronto City Hall is a well-loved Modernist icon. Completed in 1965? after the death of its architect, the Finnish master Vijo Revell?the heritage-designated square was true to the spatial arrangement Revell had envisioned. Over time, however, it had become run-down. In 2007, the City of Toronto launched an international competition to redesign Nathan Phillips Square. The winning design both draws from Revell?s own references to the classical Athenian agora and transforms the square into an exemplary 21st century public space. Through the redesign or relocation of existing elements and the addition of a new series of buildings and gardens framing the open plaza, the revitalization enhances the functionality, versatility, connectedness and appeal of Toronto?s signature civic space.
One of Revell?s master strokes was never fully developed: while his elevated walkways framed the square and focused views toward the council chamber, the Athenian idea of the s...