West District is envisioned as a compact, high-intensity, transit-supportive, mixed-use node that connects multiple neighbourhoods to have an unprecedented impact in implementing Calgary’s Municipal Development Plan goals. This unique development is comprised of 95 acres within an established west Calgary community. S2 Architecture began the project at the master planning phase and continued work through multiple site based projects including a community engagement hub, townhome design, multi-residential and mixed-use buildings, public amenity and green space design, and a community church project.
Challenge:
The area displayed a disjointed transportation network and patchwork of disconnected open spaces that needed to be re-envisioned into an innovative, supportive and connected community.
Approach:
In an effort to improve the predominately low-intensity, auto-oriented commercial and residential fabric, this large scale planning exercise requires multi-stakeholder engagement and strategically aligned phasing strategies to realize the full build out over the course of a ten year period. Along with the reorganization of the transportation network, the focus of the master plan is the “High Street” or mixed use commercial corridor which will be connected to green spaces including a ten acre park through various pathways, active and passive open spaces and will also incorporate innovative storm water management. This project is to include single family, townhouses, mid-rise residential and higher density multi-family surrounding a central mixed-use commercial zone that will serve as the heart of both the local community and surrounding neighbourhoods.
