Hello Everyone!
Most of you have heard me mention this upcoming event sponsored by local developer Brigil and the Ottawa Architecture Foundation (OAF). I now have all the information and the access link for registration. Note there is no charge to attend, and the presentation will be in English with questions in both languages. The presentation will cover what I call “naturalizing urbanism” and will feature the international work of SLA as well as their local work with Brigil on converting an old shopping mall on Boulevard Saint-Joseph in old Hull. (The firm is also now working with Brigil on a very large site in between Aylmer and Old Hull).
With many large-scale developments planned in Ottawa such as BCH’s 1925 Heron Rd and many private sector projects including Tewin – both inside and outside the Greenbelt – this topic is vital for guiding the building of a great Capital City. While SLS is a major player in Europe where their approach is being widely used, it has multiple large-scale designs in the works in the GTA… part of Toronto’s incredible “Danish Design Invasion.”
Here is the SLA website which will gives good information and visuals on the firm’s work: https://www.sla.dk/
Perkins&Will, the architects for the project, will also be there as part of the discussion.
PRESENTATION DETAILS
Here is the poster for the public presentation on April 30th. Below is the connect to Evenbrite (hold the ctrl button and click) in order to register. Again, it is free and the presentation is in English. The address is in the Evenbite link, but it is at 425 Bd Saint-Joseph, Gatineau, start time 6:00 pm.
You will notice when you register that there are two other events linked to Brigil and SLA. These are a public consultation on the actual mall project and another public consultation on the new project in 85 acres of woods located between old Hull and Aylmer on Vanier Road. One of these may be an alternative if you cannot attend on the 30th. Both are free but require registration.
I have posted a short outline of the event at the end… I prefer the topic as “Naturalized Urbanism.” Feel free to promote to others.
- Public talk (April 30, 6:00 p.m., Espace Canevas, Gatineau):
- Public discussion featuring SLA, Perkins&Will, and partners
Join Brigil, the Ottawa Architecture Foundation (OAF), and SLA, a Copenhagen-based landscape architecture and urban design firm, for City Nature with SLA, a public lecture exploring how thoughtful urban design and quality architecture help create vibrant, sustainable communities.
The Ottawa Architecture Foundation (OAF) promotes design excellence and fosters public awareness of architecture in the National Capital Region. SLA is internationally recognized for its innovative, people-centred landscapes that reconnect communities with nature. Alongside Brigil, these organizations bring expertise in urban planning, sustainable development, and community-focused design.
Attendees will gain insight into the role of design in shaping quality of life, learn from leading experts, and take part in a moderated discussion with a panel of professionals.
Whether you are a professional in urban planning, architecture, or development, or involved through your community with guiding the future of our city or your community, this event is an opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired.
Program
Opening remarks & welcome – Brigil and OAF
Presentation – SLA
- Speaker: Rasmus Astrup, SLA (Partner at SLA, Rasmus brings extensive international experience in landscape architecture and urban design. He leads projects that integrate nature and the city to create resilient, people-centred environments.)
- Moderated panel discussion featuring experts from SLA and Perkins&Will
- Audience Q&A
Event Details
- Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026
- Time: 6:00 p.m.
- Location: Espace Canevas (425 Saint-Joseph Boulevard, Gatineau)
Hosted by Brigil, in collaboration with the Ottawa Architecture Foundation (OAF) and SLA, with participation from Perkins&Will
Rhys
@architecture_critic (Instagram)
