The project began with designing the facade and the building exterior, during which in collaboration with the client we considered configuring the interior and deliver a highly efficient performing arts studio.
The massing considered the Mimico Urban Design Guidelines and focused on the idea of movement, dance and music manifested in varying planes. The seamless continuation of materials connects the front to the back of the building. Double height glazing, within the limestone facade, reveals the dance studio to the streetscape complete with a fritted pattern to allow for graphic signage. This bird-friendly glazing creates an intriguing visual on the exterior with the silhouettes of dancers presenting harmonious and playful movements.
Furthermore, the ground floor cafe spills out into the sidewalk, animating the streetscape. There are also wood accents and a horizontal visual break in the facade that aligns with the average existing building height along Lakeshore Blvd West, so although this is a new building, it is responsible and fitting in the existing streetscape. The rear of the building that is adjacent to the Mimico Square park incorporates plantings that grow along the building exterior to integrate the building with its natural surrounding. The project also includes a green roof (urban farm) and several terraces that promotes a connection to the outdoor environment.
Located in a sensitive surrounding environment, we have been engaged with all stakeholders throughout the process including neighbours, city planners, teachers, students in order to to achieve a design that can maximize our clients needs while simultaneously achieving a smooth application process.