junctionist
Senior Member
A public square should emphasize an open, paved space that's programmable, though it can still have a lot of greenery. The classic "program" for a square is a marketplace or for ceremonies (political or religious).
"impressive lakeside plaza and important new landmark"? Not from what I saw today. Sorry, I am not impressed. Sure, the redwood trees are nice and different (for Toronto) but over-all, I'm not impressed with what I see, especially north of the redwoods and Ontario Square. I'm still trying to figure out its purpose, as there is no reason for it, except as a parking lot. Canada square, where the redwoods are, is much smaller then I thought it would be. The new astroturf takes up much more of the space and it ain't too pretty an area. My expectations were so much higher than what I see right now. Maybe my standards of beauty are just so much higher then Waterfront Toronto and Harbourfront. I hope at least these spaces are well used as event spaces and other attractions. That might make up for the unimpressive design. I sure hope those redwood trees grow tall really fast.
The east side of the Harbourfront building is also being renovated, so that's good to see. This building really isn't much of a looker either, so it needs all the help it can get.