Underneath Toronto’s Gardiner Expressway lies a hidden gem. The Bentway. It’s more than just a path. It’s a vibrant public space. It connects seven neighbourhoods. A unique public-private partnership brought it to life. Judy and Wilmot Matthews donated $25 million. Their vision? To transform a divisive symbol of 20th-century planning. Ken Greenberg and PUBLIC WORK’s landscape architecture firm designed it. The Bentway’s design is rooted in its location. It uses the existing concrete columns. They’re called “bents”. These bents form unique spaces. They host diverse events. From quiet contemplation to bustling marketplaces. The expressway’s canopy provides shelter. The height varies from intimate to a majestic 15 metres. The Bentway has a skating trail. It’s 220 metres long. In summer it turns into a splash pad. A wooden bridge adds an organic touch. It provides a safe crossing over Fort York Boulevard. The bridge offers views of Fort York National Historic Site. It improves access and awareness of the historic site. The Bentway uses recycled materials. Paving includes construction debris from the Leslie Street Spit. The numbers on the concrete columns serve as wayfinding. They’re painted with reflective paint. The Bentway’s design is resourceful. It demonstrates sustainable practices. The Bentway is more than just a place. It’s a cultural institution. It hosts art installations. It holds concerts and theatre performances. The Bentway Conservancy manages it. They ensure year-round activity. From farmers’ markets to festivals The Bentway is a cherished park. It’s a role model for placemaking around the world. It’s a testament to the power of reimagining underused spaces. It’s a unique space that only happens here in Toronto.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to