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Parc de l’Anse-Aux-Rivard
By : EVOQ
GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN – 16th edition
Discipline : Landscape & Territories
Categories : Urban Design / Civic Design Project : Bronze Certification
A project that echoes history
Anse-aux-Rivard Park is located near the former Fort Sainte-Geneviève, which dates back to the 17th century. It is bordered by a cove that protects it from the currents of the Rivière des Prairies. In the 19th century, this river was used to bring wood from the Outaouais through a system of cages formed of wooden rafts, an activity that has marked our history. The log drivers and cage makers would stop at the cove for a safe break. Today, the site symbolizing the memory of the place is a peaceful haven, offering inclusive amenities that echo the history and nature in which it is embedded.
A singular concept born of a constraint
The park’s development highlights 400 years of history, a rare opportunity to revive the spirit of a heritage site that has been somewhat forgotten, but has retained much of its natural and built beauty. The project includes the development of a reception area, trails, rest and contemplation areas as well as a courtyard and two parking lots. The gently curving paths invite you to wander and allow you to gradually reach the river. They undulate through numerous green slopes that give a lot of relief to the landscape. These embankments, resulting from insitu excavations, bring an integrated modulation to the design concept, which makes the park unique!
Lush vegetation with organic forms
The site is marked by the organic forms of the paths as well as the presence of lush vegetation. The choice of plants and trees harmonizes perfectly with the peaceful and natural look of the site. The conifers bring a wooded character, certain trees such as red maples and serviceberry trees give color, the willows provide relief and finally, the perennials reinforce the picturesque atmosphere of the park. Attention was also paid to the development of the shoreline to ensure its sustainability and protect the fauna and flora present.
Contemporary furniture recalling the history of the site
The project is characterized by the presence of wooden furniture with shapes inspired by the era of the cageux. They remind us of the stacked logs that used to arrive on the park. Some surround the reception area and call for meditation, others mark the majestic wooden courtyard that evokes the shelter on the cages once built by the workers. In addition, there are simple benches, swinging benches, as well as platforms to rest and contemplate the sumptuous landscape bordering the river.
Collaboration
