Governor General’s Medals in Architecture – 2020 Recipient
The Springdale Library & Komagata Maru Park
Brampton,
ON
Award Category:
Governor General’s Medals in Architecture
RDH Architects (RDHA)
LEAD DESIGN ARCHITECT(S):
Tyler Sharp
Occupancy: July 30, 2019
Construction Budget: $16,670,000
The Springdale Library and Komagata Maru Park aspires to create an inclusive gathering place, a progressive architectural expression in the suburbs, and a point of pride for the city. The concept for this project is to establish a new type of suburban landscape through the organically shaped perimeter of the building; the creation of an undulating topography of fluid ceilings and mountainous green roof; and the sectional variation of the ground plane. The new Springdale branch provides Brampton with an emboldened organic presence and a sustainable public resource for the community.
“The jury lauded the element of joyful surprise in this suburban library. Outside, visitors can appreciate the thoughtful attention to refined details: the slenderness of the columns, the thinness of the roof. The three courtyards orchestrate strategies for echoing the landscaping inside and capturing different types of experience. Inside offers an unexpected encounter with the oculi, and magical views across the interior. This confident and competent design is not shy about celebrating the suburbs, making a civic contribution the local authorities in Brampton should be proud of.”
Jury members