Tommy Thompson Park Infrastructure

The Tommy Thompson Park infrastructure project consists of a series of small pavilions, designed as elemental shelters with varying degrees of enclosure, to support the enjoyment, management and interpretation of the Park.

Managed by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, it is an integral component of Lake Ontario Park on Toronto’s Lake Ontario waterfront.  Located on the Leslie Spit, a man-made peninsula, the Park provides a unique urban wilderness environment that sees close to 250,000 visitors per year.  Tommy Thompson Park is home to a complex mosaic of habitats, which support a diverse community of plants and wildlife.

Ecology was a key consideration in the design of the structures.  They defer to the natural landscape of the park and support park staff and visitors without encouraging activities that would impact park ecology.

The Gateway marks an entrance to the Park, provides protection of its fragile habitants during off-hours.

The Staff Booth allows TRCA staff to interact with park visitors and monitor their activities, it also provides park interpretation opportunities, provides shelter from the elements and a place to wait for TRCA’s shuttle van.
 
The Environmental Shelter offers respite from the elements to visitors. Nested within a hill it provides panoramic views from an accessible green roof and sheltered views from the covered outdoor classroom below. A long semicircular bench accommodates an entire classroom.

The Bird Banding Station was designed for transportability and flexibility. Two dismountable modules can be easily transported to follow the best location to set up the mist nests that trap the birds.