Parkdale People’s Palace
WINNER OF A 2024 CANADIAN ARCHITECT STUDENT AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
This project is a sober study of a current trend in church building reuse that is occurring across Canada. The Parkdale People’s Palace illustrates multiple interventions in an existing church and residential building that elevate and expand the program possibilities, while prioritizing food security and strengthening community. The thorough study of “what could be” in the existing spaces is diagrammed in a manner that is visually convincing.
– Matthew Hickey, juror
In recent decades, the decline in use of Canada’s church buildings has highlighted the need for creative approaches to adaptive reuse. This project builds on the existing needs of the South Parkdale community, west of downtown Toronto, to propose the reinvention of a church slated for revitalization into a community food hub.
Designated a Neighbourhood Improvement Area, South Parkdale demonstrates a commitment to social equity in the face of gentrification. Within the neighbourhood, Bonar-Parkdale Presbyterian Church was selected for its signs of disrepair and intent for revitalization. Inspired by key community directions and community-oriented design precedents, this thesis proposes to add vital social infrastructure to the area.
The project aims to provide a relevant ensemble of spaces and programs that will revitalize the church property, allowing it to become a common meeting ground for community members of diverse ages and socio-economic backgrounds. The plaza invites farmer’s markets, the basement holds a food co-op, and a commercial kitchen accommodates the preparation of meals for large events. Behind the church, an extensive community garden includes raised beds for accessibility. A co-op café fronts the building, while a teaching kitchen and hydroponics area are tucked towards the back.
The existing sanctuary is transformed into a multipurpose atrium, framed by a wood scaffold equipped with elements that maximize flexibility of use. A set of retractable bleachers and stage allow for screenings, lectures, or performances. Retractable lights, rotating ceiling baffles, and shutters can be used to adjust lighting and acoustics. The space can also be used for celebrations, indoor markets, large social dining events, or informal co-working.
The design proposal imagines the potential of a heritage asset in providing crucial social supports to communities—and, by extension, to the city at large.
FACULTY ADVISOR: Lola Sheppard
As appeared in the December 2024 issue of Canadian Architect magazine
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