Future Green Studio

birdseye yzd

The Runway at YZD Design Competition

Toronto, Ontario

Design

The Runway at YZD is a bold and innovative vision for the future of 1.3 mile airstrip at the former Downsview Airport in Toronto, Ontario. As part of a master plan for mixed-use community developments, the vision sets up a landscape framework to activate the runway in the short-term, and provide a network of open spaces and program for residents in the long-term. Building on Northcrest Developments' Master Plan, Future Green collaborated with an exceptional team to develop a vision guided by six principles: Spectacularly Everyday, Globally Local, Intimate Immensity, Living Permanence, Hi-Tech, Nature Based, and Historic Futurism. The vision weaves in the surrounding neighborhoods and cultural context, prioritizing connectivity and establishing a unique character for sub-districts along the runway. Ecologically, it connects the runway to adjacent park spaces to establish a larger scale green corridor. Through strategic use of planting, topography, lighting as well as the re-use of remaining airport structures the vision proposes a variety of intimate public spaces for everyday life and spectacular moments.