This project moves the landscape into the realm of art. The integration of the building and site are seamless, making this entire project very strong. The environmental and artistic aspects of the site are well integrated. The paving pattern was considered particularly innovative and visually striking and turned the hard surface into an important feature of the site. Each aspect of the site design reflected a response to environmental, functional and artistic considerations. This project takes the design of a public facility landscape to a new level that should be emulated across Canada.
This project offers a cutting-edge approach, combining ecological considerations and design components. Ecology is the starting point and provides the inspiration for the design strategy. The landscaping project for the Gatineau Sports Centre actually uses 50% of the excavated soil to create a huge hillock which, given the flat surroundings, becomes a landscaping attraction itself. Drainage ditches border the site and the design of the the public space façade recalls waves of rain running down to holding ponds.
The involvement of the landscape architect from the very beginning of the design process has produced a project with a remarkable relationship between architecture and landscaping. This is clearly expressed by designing a building through which the landscape literally passes. The Pedestrian Crossing cuts diagonally across the whole site, providing a link to strategic urban destinations.
