BIOPHILIA POOLS

In recent years, Toronto has undergone a rapid acceleration in growth, this has resulted in a strong urban richness, but has led to an increased loss in meaningful biological richness. The city creates a stimulating environment that facilitates unrivaled experiences of lights, sounds and fast-paced lifestyles.  What has been forgotten is the peaceful and restorative power of nature.

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Toronto’s ever-changing skyline is a captivating sight however the increase in growth and densification has become a claustrophobic experience. Toronto island is this natural oasis that is often thought as unattainable to many. The site is an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The project situates itself in a way that frames the visitor’s departure from urban life, creating a reflective experience that looks back towards the skyline. 

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Visitors will come to the site to escape urban life in search of the calm and refreshing experience of nature. This amplification of nature is a result of the creation of 5 distinct biomes that highlight the diverse landscapes of Ontario.  Paired with an assortment of swimming typologies and program types, each biome creates an experience that transports the user into an unprecedented realm of natural immersion.