Edmonton, Alberta

EFCL 100th Anniversary Project

The Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues (EFCL) is a not-for-profit organization, operating since 1921 as a governing body for all community leagues in Edmonton, bringing neighbours together, providing recreation and social programs, and developing amenities. The original guidelines and mandate focusing on inclusivity have never changed. The EFCL’s 100th Anniversary Project was born out of the desire to honour a century of contributions and volunteerism associated with the community league movement. Contributions and Volunteerism are celebrated in Edmonton’s largest public park, Hawrelak Park. At its core, the project takes the form of a four-season covered plaza and an interpretive trail; complete with unique displays, public art nodes, seating opportunities, and interactive play elements.

A PLACE TO GATHER

The plaza features a large central gas fireplace, and incorporates new seating, lake and creek viewing areas, and interpretive displays that speak to the history and culture of the community league movement.

DESIGN INTENT

Creating a vibrant and integrated public gathering space that uses various design components of the project to tell the story of the EFCL’s long history and highlight the impact its members have made to communities in the Edmonton area.

INTERACTIVE ART

A pathway network along the manmade stream offers new interactive art installations to engage visitors and showcase the continuing contributions of the EFCL and their volunteers.

Landscape Architecture

Humans need contact with nature. Our team weaves creative and sustainable design into the built environment to create places that attract people for diverse activities. We start by learning about the ecology and condition of the site—understanding its traditions, resources and materials—and we work to express the natural heritage, social and cultural values of the space. Our solutions incorporate innovative techniques such as rainwater management to foster resilience, regeneration and value in community and place.