“This is a social experiment that seems to be working. Woodward’s provides shelter and dignity for society’s most vulnerable, and eschews segregation of wealthy and poor in favour of placing them side by side in establishing a healthy and diverse community. It has catalyzed improvements to the surrounding neighbourhood that, despite its persistent challenges, continues to thrive. As a model of social inclusivity, stability and economic sustainability, Woodward’s offers hope for the future.” – Leslie Jen, Canadian Architecture
In Canadian Architecture: Evolving a Cultural Identity, Leslie Jen profiles Henriquez Partners’ Woodward’s Redevelopment and Mirvish Village among the work of three dozen leading architectural studios across Canada. Jen – architectural writer and former associate editor of Canadian Architect – documents some major Canadian projects, from residential, cultural to public buildings, that are making a meaningful contribution to our daily lives.
On Mirvish Village, Jen writes: “A fine-grained approach to the design ensures that the existing scale and texture of the surrounding urban fabric is respected. Although the density is unprecedented for this neighbourhood, breaking the massing down into six separate buildings establishes a human scale and porosity that draws people into a central open public space accommodating a vibrant market showcasing food, artisans and live music.”
Canadian Architecture is now available; click the link below to purchase the book.