Located in downtown Calgary's bustling Beltline neighbourhood, Lois Szabo Commons is a mixed-use flex space where locals can gather, get active and access the metropolitan area with ease.

As one of six parks rebuilt in celebration of the city's 125th anniversary, we designed an inclusive oasis amid a concrete jungle. Softened edges, multiple access points, accommodating seating and aesthetic landscaping create a human-scale experience countering nearby high-rise buildings.

Main sightlines into the park remain open, while denser plantings thoughtfully frame less-accessible back edges. A hierarchy of pathways create visual interest and connectivity. To facilitate year-round events, performances and play, we implemented versatile spaces with movable furnishings, comfortable seating areas and ping pong tables.

Before redesign, the Lois Szabo Commons site lacked color, vibrancy and functionality. Despite a prime location, it fell short on common areas, green spaces and walkability. Edges also lacked definition and made the parameters unclear and uninviting.

Open sightlines and a network of pathways — particularly a main diagonal spine — encourage movement and exploration. Layered plantings, soft landscaping and framed views bring beauty and ecological value while subtly managing foot traffic.

Ultimately, groundcubed transformed forgettable patches of pavement into a dynamic urban escape encouraging play, pause and performance.