Maple Hills Park

Focused on equitable community development, well-being and energy conservation, the Maple Hills Park improvement project upgraded outdated facilities with a new restroom building, park shelter and site improvements, providing enhanced functionality, security and energy efficiency while redefining the architectural character of the park.

Throughout the design process, SFS actively engaged the community, whose participation informed on-site amenities and public spaces while balancing security with access. The new facilities provide versatile gathering spaces for various-sized groups, enhancing community interaction and social engagement, while low operational costs and the use of durable materials promote resiliency through careful stewardship of community resources.

While providing a unique visual identity to the park, the composition and placement of the new structures contributes to a strong sense of community and encourages informal social interactions among neighbors. The buildings accommodate a range of user preferences and activities, ensuring accessibility for all. By addressing well-being on a community scale, the project creates long-lasting positive impacts on the physical, mental and social well-being of local residents and fosters a supportive and connected community environment.

Energy costs for the community are significantly diminished and sustainable practices are promoted to all visiting the site. Solar panels generate electricity on-site for all new structures while the restroom building relies on its compact form and clerestory daylighting to limit its energy needs. The shelter's roof is formed by standing seam steel roofing and cross-laminated timber panels. Structurally innovative and aesthetically pleasing, the panels use rapidly renewable resources and reduce on-site construction time while minimizing finish materials and enhancing the acoustic quality of the shelter.

For night functions, the shelter features surface-mounted light fixtures integrated at each galvanized steel column.