Projects

The MBTW Group was responsible for the landscape component of The Orillia Public Library and Market Square project, which captures the best qualities of the urban character of the downtown context, through selective and strategic site design initiatives. The goal of the project was to achieve a new vibrant urban destination for citizens, in the heart of Orillia. Design priorities for this project include:

• Communication of the established community identity;

• Coordination of a cohesive design palette;

• Integration and re-use of pre-existing features;

• Flexible user-controlled, multi-purpose environments; and

• Connectivity with existing and future contextual elements.

This state of the art library and civic square integrates with the historic fabric of the Opera House to define new public spaces for outdoor music, arts festivals and the local farmer’s market. The landscape plan includes a series of terraced public spaces, designed to support the enjoyment of the site’s three principal offerings: literature, music and food.

The new library building is registered as LEED Silver. Green initiatives include stormwater retention cisterns for irrigation and building grey water use, reduction of urban heat island through reflective paving and green roofs, daylight harvesting, extensive use of recycled and local materials, and an ambitious program for urban composting and recycling for the completed Market Square.