MACDONALD BLOCK LOOP

The Macdonald Block Complex is the administrative centre of Ontario’s provincial government operations, consisting of 5 buildings in downtown Toronto. The block is undergoing its first major renovation since construction in 1971, including greenspace redevelopment. Two Row Architect was selected as the Indigenous Architect for the design of the Indigenous Ceremonial Garden and worked in collaboration with adesso design inc.

Through conversations with Indigenous community partners, the idea of “ceremony” was discussed, and the design was oriented towards the expression of Indigenous ways of Knowing and Being. Letting the landscape lead the way, the intention was to create a safe and welcoming place in the heart of urban Tkaronto that reflected the diverse Indigenous peoples who live here.

Allowing opportunities within the garden and landscape for circulation, gathering and knowledge transfer, the garden is furnished with all natural materials, Indigenous medicinal plants, stone, natural protective elements, and places for sitting. The renewal work is underway and is expected to be fully open in 2024.