Waterworks is striking for the remarkable mix of uses it provides. The Food Hall, a retail market for fresh and prepared food will stretch the length of a full city block. An open-air courtyard will be surrounded by retail shops. A full-service YMCA is equipped with a 25m swimming pool, full gymnasium, state of the art strength and conditioning facilities, studios for yoga, dance and community meetings.

Topping off the building are 10 floors of residences each with expansive outdoor terraces and views. The site occupies the entire width of a city block. We have created pedestrian mews and routes that provide access through the site east to west but also north to south through a beautifully proportioned outdoor courtyard. Inspiration for the transformation of the Waterworks site is drawn from the mix of uses, heritage and new structures in this dense, urban neighbourhood. The existing heritage structure was an elegant public works building of inspired architectural quality. We are retaining much of heritage fabric of the original building including structure, skylights and ceiling elements. Windows and door opening are all being refurbished but will retain their original materiality and detail. These restored elements will define the retail public spaces and their character.