Clarkson Community Centre Pool Expansion

City of Mississauga, Ont.
Construction Cost: $9 million (Canadian)
Area / Square Feet: 21,175
Occupancy Date: July 2011

The aquatic addition to an existing library, community center, gymnasium and arena extends the building to create an increased presence and identity along a main artery of the community. All existing pedestrian and cycling routes were maintained and enhanced, and the facility now is dynamically linked to an existing skate park.

A large amount of strategically placed glazing communicates the interior functions of the new pool to the exterior, while advantageously opening up the building to receive natural light. Approaching the building, one can see the warm blue-and-gold glow of the pool on one side and the stacks of the existing library on the other.

The gymnasium forms the backdrop to the new lobby, and the generous plaza and new lobby space extend the public realm from the street into the heart of the Clarkson Community Centre. Abundant seating, landscaping and bicycle parking allow for informal, spontaneous interaction. This is where the project succeeds the most — by encouraging people to stay for a while.

Judge's Comments

I appreciated the simplicity of program and materiality, the delightful dance of the interior palette, and the overarching thoughtfulness of the concept of transparency.
— Robert McDonald, Ohlson Lavoie Collaborative

Exquisite detailing and strategic use of natural light demonstrate sensitivity to how materials are brought together to create an inspiring space.
— James Braam, 360 Architecture

One of the most beautiful interiors we saw, with balance of light and warmth of wood. Keeping the wood sun screening on the inside creates a much more beautiful interior, adding texture and filtering light within the pool environment.
— Jim Kalvelage, Opsis Architecture