By Kristy Strauss
Imagine Victoria Island as a meditation spot, a celebratory space, or with large lighting posts that illuminate the surroundings at night – all while maintaining the site’s heritage and identity.
Carleton University students designed these unique concepts, and many others, that will be on display at Ottawa’s City Hall from July 8 to19.
“Students said for the first time, they felt like they were working on a real-world project,” said Mariana Esponda Cascajares, a professor with the Azrieli School of Architecture and Urbanism. “Even though it was hard work, they really enjoyed it.”
Cascajares, who oversaw the project, held a technology and design charrette on the island in mid-March – challenging students and young professionals from different academic backgrounds to revitalize the site, while incorporating its historic and cultural importance.
Located on the Ottawa River, the spot has played an important role in the country’s growth. It has been a significant area from pre-history, through First Nations eras, to voyageur times and in Canada’s early industrial development. In the mid-19th century, there were mills and power plants on the site. It also became the most important sawmill centre in Canada.
Cascajares chose the site because she was always interested in the spot, and wanted to know more about it.
Students and young professionals in conservation, architecture, history, landscape urban planning, and engineering worked together on the designs, and were also guided by experts in heritage conservation.
“This is a very important place in Canada, and Ottawa,” Cascajares said. “But only a few people know about it, and it’s right in front of parliament. It’s important that the students and the community be aware of the potential of this site. It has natural, Aboriginal, and cultural significance.”
Students were given a history of the area, and guidelines for their concepts including island access and a welcome pavilion – all while protecting and promoting the its importance to Aboriginal communities, and maintaining its industrial heritage.
Cascajares said the project was a great way for students of all disciplines to work together, and think about conservation while designing concepts.
She added that students had an invaluable experience – applying what they learn in the classroom to a real-world situation.
“I need to train my students to think about conservation, and have critical thinking,” she said. “When they work on a project, I want them to know the value of the place.”
The top three teams were given monetary awards from the Martin Weaver Memorial Fund – which is used to promote knowledge in education, training, and research in heritage conservation.
Those top three concepts will also be displayed at city hall this July, and will be used as guidelines to help city officials plan for the site’s future.
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For more information:
Chris Cline
Media Relations Co-ordinator
Carleton University
613-520-2600, ext. 1391
613-355-0336
christopher_cline@carleton.ca