Public Realm Renewal In City Spaces

University of Toronto: Faculty of Law Landscape + Public Realm Renewal

Project Photos

Designed in collaboration with Hariri Pontarini Architects, the new Jackman Law Building provides the school with much-needed additional space in an iconic new home. The landscape design created by B+H Planning and Landscape complements this new building and creates separate and distinct entries with a street entrance fronting onto iconic Queen’s Park and a secluded entry branching from the surrounding university campus stemming from historic Philosopher’s Walk. The campus entry incorporates a series of social amenities including small nodes for gathering, formal seating, and an informal courtyard to contribute to an inspiring campus experience for faculty staff, students, and public passersby.

Attention to details relating to public health, safety and accessibility were carefully incorporated into the landscape plan, without losing the special features that add to the organic flow of the existing surroundings and complement the natural beauty of the area. Accent pavers on gently sloping, meandering pathways act as notification of upcoming level changes as well as indications of heated entryways. A rich selection of plants was also selected to create a special garden for this new building, creating a strong public realm identity.