As the regulatory body governing architecture in Ontario, the OAA plays a pivotal role in promoting the importance of innovative design and sustainable architecture in building resilient and vibrant communities.
Vignette of OAA HQ highlighting the landscape design of the entrance of Team Basswoods, Catch/Renew/Release submitted for the OAA Landscape Design Competition
In March 2024, the OAA launched its Landscape Design Competition to reimagine the grounds of its Toronto headquarters into a more sustainable, accessible, artful, and welcoming space. With architect Joe Lobko working in a professional advisor role, the anonymous competition focused on taking meaningful steps toward healing our relationship with the land and its original caretakers, all while celebrating the natural beauty of the adjacent Don River watershed context, both in terms of scenery and biodiversity.
The competition required that each team included a full member of the Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA) and a civil engineer. Membership in the OAA, however, was not a requirement for entry. As anonymity for participants was crucial for ensuring fairness, the 19 interdisciplinary teams were assigned a “tree” name by Lobko and kept confidential from the jury and OAA.
Site plan of Team Basswoods, Catch/Renew/Release submitted for the OAA Landscape Design Competition
Receiving an honourable mention in the competition was Team Basswood for their project "Catch/Renew/Release.” After the competition, this team was revealed to be led by Lisa Rapoport of PLANT Architect Inc., with landscape architect Eric Klaver and other members of PLANT Architect and Chesley Blahut of Aplin Martin Consultants Ltd.
The proposal focused on transforming the current OAA Headquarters site into a dynamic landscape that slows and cleanses stormwater by integrating native plants while enhancing pedestrian access and showcasing the landscape's biodiversity.
Site section of OAA HQ to show storm water management of Team Basswoods, Catch/Renew/Release submitted for the OAA Landscape Design Competition
To learn more about the other two honourable mentions, as well as the winning proposal, click here.
The OAA Landscape Design Competition was an extension of the Association’s Renew + Refresh initiative for its Headquarters, and part of a commitment to climate action.