Urban Design and Architecture Awards

Project description
Standing more than 8 metres in height, WoodGate is a functional public art sculpture in the heart of the downtown entertainment and dining district. It was selected through public consultation and adjudication.

The combination of wood and metal elements are a reflection of the warmth and strength of Hamilton’s industrial roots. Designed by Dina Sarhane of DS Studio Inc. in collaboration with Tom Silvans of Omtre and Mani Mani of Fishtnk Design Factory, the project merges public art and civic infrastructure by providing both an art-piece as landmark, and the gatearm to close King William Street for pedestrian-only events.

Jury comments
Jury members were impressed by the injection of material warmth into the busy downtown community, particularly in the evening when the integrated lighting expresses the curvilinear wood arms and illuminates as a beacon. The jury also appreciated the dual-functionality of WoodGate and saw the success of the gate function as a strong community building element when used for pedestrian-only events on King William Street.

Address South-East side of King William Street & James  Street, Hamilton

Project team

• City of Hamilton
• DS Studio Inc.
• Fishtnk Design Factory
• Omtre
• WSP
• Goodfellows Inc.

Project description
Five art panels stand tall in a new public square where James Street North meets Hamilton Harbour, the western corner of Lake Ontario.

Glass spheres illuminated by the sun are arranged to represent images from traditional Indigenous teachings and the Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address. The multi-disciplinary design team was led by (Cree/Metis) artist Angela DeMontigny with Cobalt Connects, Paull Rodrigue Glass, Lafontaine Iron Werks and EXP Engineering.

Jury comments
The jury noted the strength of the art panels in creating a space at the end of James Street, serving as a wayfinding element and fostering community engagement through Indigenous public art that offers both aesthetic value and reflects traditional teachings. A jury member noted the community benefit surpassed the financial input. Another jury member appreciated the care and quality of the individual glass beads since each one was hand-blown and fit securely into place to withstand the elements at the waterfront public square. One jury member noted an opportunity for the plaza’s landscaping, as well as the materials and execution of the supporting structures, to be more in harmony with the art panels and their message.

Address West Harbour James Street Plaza, Hamilton

Project team

• City of Hamilton
• Angela DeMontigny
• EXP
• CoBALT Connects
• Paull Rodrigue Glass
• Lafontaine Iron Werks

Project description
Built using modular construction and certified as a Passive House Building, 257 King William Street deftly integrates sustainable design features into the building envelope while crafting a truly welcoming yard for residents. 

The project includes a high-performance building envelope and photovoltaic panels garnering high marks for sustainable design.

Jury comments
Jury members praised the detailed exterior and the use of board and batten at ground level paired with standing seam
metal panels above. They appreciated how the building stepped back from the street to create generous landscaping and resident space, enhanced by large seating and planting beds near the entrance. 

The jury was impressed by the large windows, which contrast with the smaller openings typical in Passive House buildings. Most notably, they valued the rear yard amenity space, describing it as a pleasant retreat with thoughtfully designed seating and preserved boundary trees often lost in construction.

Address 257 King William Street, Hamilton

Project team

• CityHousing Hamilton
• Montgomery Sisam Architects
• Toms + McNally Design
• Landwise
• OMC Landscape Architecture
• Ainley
• DesignWorks
• Solera
• NRB Modular Solutions - ATCO Structures
• Peel Passive House
• Peto McMallum
• SLR
• Vortex Fire
• National Elevator Consulting
• CFMS - West Consulting Inc.

Project description
A pair of modestly-scaled and otherwise unassuming 4-storey apartment buildings sit nestled around a sunken courtyard in the Beasley neighbourhood, linked by a functional bridge in an example of innovative solution of a infill development on a compact site.

Commissioned by Woven Quarter Properties, RAW architecture designed the pair of buildings with a prefabricated construction system and employed the creative arrangement of units to maximize access to light and outdoor living-spaces.

Jury comments
The jury had high regard for the project’s sensitivity to it’s context and fit within the community. They mentioned that it is refreshing to see a modestly-scaled development being finished with high quality detailing. The jury appreciated the length the design team went to provide quality outdoor spaces for the residents in such a compact footprint. The jury saw the sunken courtyard as the jewel of the project, not only for its charm and landscape greenery, but as the primary entrance for the lower units. The courtyard not only provides copious amounts of natural light, it creates a dignified, high-quality apartment entrance experience that is so much more than afforded by a standard basement apartment.

Address 131 Wellington Street North, Hamilton

Project team

• Woven Quarter Properties
• RAW Design
• Arcadis
• Jablonsky, Ast and Partners
• Adesso Design Inc.
• S. Llewellyn & Associates Ltd.
• Reinbold Engineering Group
• Mighton Engineering

Project description
A timely renovation has brought new life to two long-vacant heritage buildings on the Gore Park block in downtown Hamilton. The owners trusted Architects Toms + McNally Design with the task of orchestrating new office and commercial spaces with all the requisite building upgrades that might be required in a 19th-Century building. Using WELL Building principles and prioritizing natural light, fresh air and the inclusion of plants, the central atrium brings natural light to the new spaces of the building. The first floor is filled with colour and plant life to bring charm and warmth to all the users of the building.

Jury comments
The jury was unanimous in recognizing and promoting the value of renovating and repairing older buildings in the city’s core, and the richness and texture that is created. Some jury members were impressed with the bright and airy atrium space and how colour and plants were used to inject life into the building. One jury member noted the success of the central atrium in activating what would otherwise be a dark centre core with a building depth exceeding 150 feet. The jury felt that the project should be recognized as a worthy renovation in a complex setting, and one that brings a modicum of renewal to Hamilton’s downtown on the Gore Park.

Address 62-64 King Street East, Hamilton,

Project team

• King John Buildings
• Toms + McNally Design
• Mantecon Partners
• Harbour Hills Construction Management

Project description
Inspired by Hamilton’s industrial roots and set in the vibrant Corktown neighbourhood, The Chelsea skillfully combines 70 rental units of sizes ranging from 1 to 3 bedrooms with a flexible open-plan commercial space at grade which is home to a restaurant with generous patio spaces on two streets. 

Designed by Lintack Architects and built by Core Urban Inc., The Chelsea stands at 9-storeys, completed with a mixture of modern and traditional design cues, combining robust brickdetailing with expansive windows offering both aesthetic quality and functional natural lighting.

Jury comments
The jury was impressed by the fit on the site and the space for activity at street level. Some jury members noted the light and airy feel for the residential units on the upper levels that sit back from the building base’s edge, and wrap-around balconies offering great views of the city and escarpment. Jury members were also pleased by the cohesive fit along the street and how the finer architectural details were able to reflect those in the existing buildings on the street in a larger-scale application. The Chelsea is an example of a mixed-use building that successfully arranges the public elements to contribute to the community. The success of this development is evident in the vibrant street life.

Address 24 Augusta Street, Hamilton

Project team

• Core Urban Inc.
• Lintack Architects Inc.
• Webb Planning Consultants Inc.
• Adesso Design Inc.
• Mantecon Partners
• Habilis Engineering Inc.
• EXP
• Fortino Bros Inc.

Project description
Located in downtown Hamilton within the International Village Business Improvement Area, 1 Jarvis is an example of an infill development that has made good on the attempt to fit within it’s context. The design tools employed by Studio JCI pull materials, store fronts, roof lines and massing details from the community and combine to achieve an optimal result. At 15 storeys, the building features a strong podium that creates a vibrant and functional streetscape along two streets, with residential units facing Jarvis Street and a large commercial space with an expansive patio fronting Ferguson Avenue.

Jury comments
Jury members welcomed the authentic use of brick on the podium and appreciated the lightness of the upper levels which step back from the building base. Other Jury members noted the composition and scale of the building’s massing elements and material detailing were highly effective in bringing life and sense of human scale to the project. There was appreciation for the decision to set-back the building from the street edge to provide space for landscaping and for life to occur at street level – without being “on the street”.

Address 1 Jarvis Street, Hamilton

Project team

• Emblem Developments
• Studio JCI
• A. J. Clarke & Associates Ltd.
• Adesso Design Inc.
• Salas O’Brien
• Reinbold Engineering Group
• Nemetz (S/A) & Associates
• MTE Consultants

Project description
Featuring two 30-storey towers that rise above a 4-storey podium, The King William Urban Rentals project encompasses nearly half of an entire city block, embodying ambition and a great deal of enthusiasm and confidence in the urban-living model that is rapidly rising throughout downtown Hamilton.

Jury comments
The jury were impressed by the ambition shown in the project redefining such a large property with heritage context and executing tall towers in close-quarters with respectable integration to the area. The jury noted that the desire to recreate the charm and textures that are so perceptible along King William Street was evident, and despite the modern assemblage appearing indifferent or thin in places. The contribution to urban life from this complete development should nonetheless be felt by King William Street and all of downtown Hamilton.

Address 8 & 22 Hughson Street North, Hamilton

Project team

• King William Residence Inc.
• LIUNA Local 837
• Graziani & Corazza Architects
• UrbanSolutions
• MSLA
• S. Llewellyn & Associates Ldt.
• The Hi-Rise Group
• Entuitive

Project description
Combining student life with wellness services and athletics and recreational spaces, the McMaster Student HUB and Pulse Fitness Centre has quickly become a popular destination on campus and a beacon anchoring the student experience in one convenient and connected space. Through extensive user engagement, MJMA Architecture and Design have combined student wellness spaces such as nap rooms, café, grocer, student kitchen and food bank – all arranged with care to create physical and visual connection between users to encourage participation and interactions on campus.

Jury comments
The jury was pleased to see that the building was well-used by students. The jury also appreciated the interior layout that provides a space for many different uses, yet retains a good sense of connection throughout the building, highlighted with the bright and welcoming atrium and pleasant entrance hall. One Juror remarked how comfortable the space felt upon entering – and how they could easily have spent an hour in the space if time permitted. Jury members were in agreement that the detailing and arrangement of the interior spaces , and their connection to the street, were the strength of the project and a definite benefit to student life at McMaster University.

Address 1280 Main Street W, Hamilton

Project team

• McMaster University
• MJMA Architecture & Design
• Blackwell
• Smith + Andersen
• Footprint

Project description
The mandate of the new Hamilton Urban Core Community Health Centre is to provide client-focused equitable care for marginalized and racialized communities in Hamilton’s downtown area. The building design, with the open 2-storey atrium and strong visual connection throughout the building celebrates dignity and belonging for both community members and staff. Architects Tillman Ruth Robinson used brick and wooden features to sensatively fit the elegant building within the residential neighbourhood.

Jury comments
The jury praised the bright and welcoming double-height atrium space and the inclusion of the 2nd-storey exterior courtyard space which produce a very high-quality user-experience. Jury members also remarked of the high-quality materials and level of finish exhibited by the health centre. However, the jury had reservations regarding the lack of activation of the street corner, and the provisional perimeter fencing, as it appeared to affect the open and welcoming atmosphere of the building’s design, and inquired whether a more discreet and integrated security solution had been considered.

Address 430 Cannon Street East, Hamilton

Project team

• Hamilton Urban Core Community Health Centre
• architects Tillmann Ruth Robinson
• Landwise
• OMC Landscape Architecture
• MTE Consultants
• VanderWesten & Rutherford Associates

Project description
Building upon the opportunities provided in the original 1875 farmhouse, the expansive renovation provided accessibility, light and new exhibition and program spaces including a new outdoor covered deck area that brings the museum experience outside and connects with nature in a treed alcove in Gage Park. Bright colours and strong geometrical shapes were employed to bring the requisite energy for the child-focused spaces – encouraging self-directed play and handson learning. A glazed link with tapered columns provides a light touch and breathing space between the original brick façade and the new program spaces.

Jury comments
The jury found the building bright, fun and playful, noting the use of material, colour and scale throughout both the interior and exterior. The inclusion of an outdoor space was enjoyed by the panel, and there was appreciation for the level of materiality and detailing employed in the building. The jury was left with a desire for greater connection to the park itself -noting the lack of gate with the perimeter fence and the strong axial gardens not addressed in the building’s design or siting. The jury noted an opportunity for a design response that more thoughtfully considered the heritage park context, including more intuitive connectivity and improved siting and detailing of the building and its immediate landscape, in relation to the strong axial gardens.

Address 1072 Main Street East, Hamilton

Project team

• City of Hamilton
• Hamilton Children’s Museum
• Workshop Architecture Inc.
• Aboud & Associates Inc.
• S. Llewellyn & Associates Ltd.
• EXP

Project description
Located within Hamilton’s Confederation Park, the Jennie Florence Parker Sports Complex enhances and celebrates the existing waterfront landscape while promoting active recreational opportunities as well as moments for quiet meditation and respite in a natural setting. The design team led by DTAH architects and landscape architects incorporates a Field House, Maintenance Garage and renovations to the existing Gatehouse. A nature-themed playground inspires exploration and stewardship with a deft-touch landscape design which seamlessly connects the new play and sport spaces with the existing rich-natural setting of the expansive park.

Jury comments
The jury was enamored with the project overall, and jury members felt that the site layout of the park buildings was wellintegrated to landscape and produced a very comfortable space between the field house and playing fields. 

Jury members noted the care and attention to detailing of landscape and sustainable design features extended into the parking area, exhibited with landscaped swales that blended into the landscaping surrounding the hard-court and open play areas. The playful use of colour and shapes seen in the play structures and landscape benches was also reflected in the artful lighting structure in the community square next to the field houses. 

The jury was in full agreement of the benefit and joy brought to the community by the introduction of Jennie Florence Parker Sports Complex.

Address 105 N Service Road, Hamilton

Project team

• City of Hamilton
• DTAH
• DTAH Architects Limited
• Sabourin Kimble & Associates
• Moses Structural Engineers
• MJS Consultants Inc.
• Dyche Engineering Inc.
• Smart Watering Systems
• Sports Turf International
• A.W. Hooker
• Earthscape

Project description
Rethinking Chedoke Creek examines and reimagines the namesake waterway in an effort to educate the community and learn about options available to reconnect with Hamilton’s watershed. The project focuses on three public spaces along the path of Chedoke Creek: where the creek originates on the escarpment, through a municipal golf course, and lastly along the watercourse that empties into Cootes Paradise. Initiated by the Bay Area Restoration Council and in collaboration with Civicplan and Toms + McNally Design, the team illustrates different ways in which the creek could be transformed and improved.

Jury comments
The jury was in agreement in recognizing the wisdom and potential gains from daylighting and restoring urban creeks, and wanted to put their support behind future efforts which could build upon some of the contemporary examples of urban creek restoration that is catching traction in some leading municipalities across North America and beyond. The jury encourages future studies to consider more ecological and immersive design expressions, and a wider variety of study locations that would see the most potential benefit for Hamiltonians.

Address Hamilton

Project team

• Bay Area Restoration Council
• Toms + McNally Design
• Civicplan

Project description
A layered transformation of a former industrial building aims to provide high-quality homes for Hamilton’s Urban Indigenous community in partnership with Sacajawea Non-Profit Housing. 

Originally constructed in 1911 and seeing multiple owners over the years, including recently housing a performing arts company, the renovation was designed in partnership between Smoke Architecture and Invizij Architects.

Jury comments
The jury saw the project as a successful conversion to housing, and one that provided both high-quality living spaces and a commitment to a high performance building envelope. 

The jury appreciated the amount of Indigenous art incorporated into both the interior and exterior. They liked the floral art panels transforming windows to beacons to welcome residents and offer integrated public art into the building envelope. The panel felt the particular care of detailing and construction of the interior components was notable and was sure to provide dignified homes and communal space for the residents.

Address 16 Steven Street, Hamilton

Project team

• Sacajawea Non-Profit Housing Inc.
• Invizij Architects Inc.
• Smoke Architecture Inc.
• Naomi Smith
• Landwise
• Tim Welch Consulting Inc.
• CK Engineering Inc.
• Kalos Engineering Inc.
• MTE Consultants

Project description
An adaptive re-use of the former St Mark’s Church, originally built in 1877 and now seeing restoration and renovation after sitting vacant for more than 20 years. Under the new name of Magnolia Hall, the enlarged and rehabilitated building has been re-purposed as an assembly space complete with all the modern services needed, and now accessible access for all with the AODA compliant main entrance, kitchen servery and barrier-free washrooms. Magnolia Hall is now ready to serve the community events and gatherings, ensuring the long and vibrant history of the building will continue to grow for another generation.

Jury comments
The jury was ardent in their support for projects that choose to restore and rehabilitate heritage buildings, and showed appreciation for the efforts made to work sensitively with the addition to give the original building space to shine. Jury members recognized the warmth of the main hall with the wood detailing and rich colours in the stained-glass windows. A jury member noted that the community-led advocacy in which the renovated Magnolia Hall is the end result is commendable, and the project is an example of what is possible when we restore heritage buildings and find new purpose with adaptive re-use.

Address 115 Hunter Street S, Hamilton

Project team

• City of Hamilton
• ATA Architects Inc.
• OMC Landscape Architecture
• Mantecon Partners
• Limen Group Construction Ltd.
• Renokrew
• EGD Glass Studio

Project description
The project reimagines a large-scale jam production factory and focuses on the publicly accessible agriculture and production experience, illuminating the possibilities that increased transparency could bring to the concepts of localism and farm-to-table production. Environmental and economic sustainability are considered through adaptive re-use of the existing facility and the introduction of new program spaces include a farmer’s market, community kitchen and facility tours.

Jury comments
The jury was pleased with the holistic research approach employing tabula plena which acknowledges that the existing space is full, and garnering the value from the existing, rather than starting from scratch. The community surrounding the Jammery was integral to the project and the programming. The jury was appreciative of the local subject matter and the amount of local and regional context that was brought into the final design solution. Lastly the jury congratulates this project for the recognition and promotion of the Stoney Creek fruit belt.

Address 944 Hwy 8, Hamilton

Project team

• Julia Krulicki
• Austin Hendy

Project description
Located on the former City Motor Hotel site, CityHousing Hamilton’s 55 Queenston Road Apartments is a six-storey building designed with setbacks to accommodate the Queenston Traffic Circle and planned LRT infrastructure. The ground-level commercial space will house a YWCA childcare centre with a secure play area opening onto a shared courtyard. This courtyard serves as a quiet, family-friendly space between building phases. The building’s angular form provides three bedroom corner units with natural light. Three custom murals reflect Hamilton’s transit history, featuring the incline railway, the Studebaker era, and the upcoming LRT.

Chief Planner comments
This 40-unit development in Hamilton offers 100% deeply affordable rent-geared-to-income housing, addressing the city’s critical need for affordable housing. With 11 fully barrier-free units, nearly double the standard requirement, the project improves inclusivity and accessibility for residents with diverse needs. Daylight-filled corridors enhance the living environment, promoting wellbeing and reducing electricity usage. Its rooftop solar PV system and Passive House International pre-certification as a Low Energy Building demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability, reducing energy costs and environmental impact. Together, these features support Hamilton’s goals for affordable, inclusive, and environmentally responsible housing, benefiting both residents and the broader community.

Address 55 Queenston Road, Hamilton

Project team

• CityHousing Hamilton
• Invizij Architects Inc.
• Toms + McNally Design
• OMC Landscape Architecture
• Zon Engineering Inc.
• S. Llewellyn & Associates Ltd.
• Kalos Engineering Inc.
• CK Engineering Inc.
• Schilthuis Construction Inc.

Project description
The CityHousing Hamilton project at 106 Bay Street North is a six-storey, safe, and affordable building designed to support diverse communities. Built on a former City-owned parking lot, the development features no underground parking, with vehicle access restricted to Cannon Street, keeping the Bay Street frontage entirely pedestrian-friendly. A pedestrian plaza connects Bay Street to a landscaped garden at the rear, doubling as bicycle parking and providing a buffer between the building and nearby historic three storey townhomes. The ground floor includes a community space that encourages social interaction, serving both residents and the wider neighbourhood through social services and events.

Chief Planner comments
This 55-unit development at 106 Bay Street North represents a significant milestone for the City of Hamilton in advancing affordable and sustainable housing. By providing 82% deeply affordable and 18% moderately affordable units, the project directly addresses the city’s urgent need for affordable housing options. Its commitment to Passive House Standards, including superior insulation, airtight construction, and energy-efficient ventilation, demonstrates leadership in reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The inclusion of rooftop photovoltaic panels further supports the city’s climate goals. Together, these achievements showcase Hamilton’s dedication to creating resilient, healthy communities while promoting environmental sustainability and social equity.

Address 106 Bay Street North, Hamilton

Project team

• CityHousing Hamilton
• Kearns Mancini Architects
• Bousfields
• Adesso Design Inc.
• Read Jones Christoffersen
• Nemetz (S/A) & Associates
• Reinbold Engineering Group
• S. Llewellyn & Associates Ltd.
• WSP
• Schilthuis Construction Inc.
• Peel Passive House

Project description
The Hamilton Passive House Modular Housing project, located at 257 King William Street in downtown Hamilton, offers safe and affordable rental living options through a thoughtfully designed compact three-storey building that complements its surrounding context. The building integrates with nearby structures by matching setbacks, height, and rooflines, creating an appropriately scaled infill with gentle density that blends well into the neighbourhood. Constructed using modular methods, the development features amenity space at ground level with residential units above. An enclosed backyard provides a secure outdoor area enhanced with barbecues, seating, and a community garden surrounded by low-maintenance landscaping. As a Certified Passive House, it incorporates sustainable design elements like a high-performance envelope and photovoltaic panels.

Chief Planner comments
This project significantly increases Hamilton’s affordable housing supply by providing 24 studio-style units, all deeply affordable and rent-geared-to-income housing. It offers safe and stable homes specifically for Black, Indigenous, and other racialized individuals facing systemic housing barriers. By transforming a former parking lot into much-needed affordable housing, the development maximizes land use efficiently. Modular design accelerated the construction timeline while maintaining superior quality. 

The building’s Passive House Certification, featuring an airtight envelope and an all-electric heating and cooling system powered by rooftop photovoltaic panels, showcases a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation. The project also included a well-designed outdoor amenity at the rear.

Address 257 King William Street, Hamilton

Project team

• CityHousing Hamilton
• Montgomery Sisam Architects
• Toms + McNally Design
• Landwise
• OMC Landscape Architecture
• Ainley
• DesignWorks
• Solera
• NRB Modular Solutions - ATCO Structures
• Peel Passive House
• Peto McMallum
• SLR
• Vortex Fire
• National Elevator Consulting
• CFMS - West Consulting Inc.

Project description
Located at 1620 Main Street East on a compact, transit-connected urban site, this six-storey mass timber building is adjacent to the 55 Queenston Road site. It provides housing that supports vulnerable residents in a well-connected neighbourhood. The structure is built primarily from sustainably harvested cross-laminated timber, including stairwells and elevator shafts, which greatly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to concrete construction. The building’s simple, modern form aligns with the residential scale of the area while reflecting civic investment. This approach combines sustainable materials with practical design to meet the needs of the community.

Chief Planner comments
This 42-unit affordable housing development marks a significant step for the City of Hamilton by increasing access to supportive housing with 52% deeply affordable rent-geared-to-income housing units and 48% moderately affordable ‘half-market’ rents. 

As CityHousing Hamilton’s first mass timber project, it highlights the city’s commitment to innovative, sustainable construction. Certified under Passive House International standards, the building is among the most energy-efficient in Hamilton, offering low operating costs and nearly zero greenhouse gas emissions throughout its lifespan. The use of prefabricated components accelerated the construction timeline, enabling the city to deliver affordable housing more quickly to meet urgent community needs.

Address 1620 Main Street East, Hamilton

Project team

• CityHousing Hamilton
• mcCallumSather
• Landwise
• OMC Landscape Architecture
• RDH Building Science Inc.
• DEI Consulting
• MTE Consultants
• Element5
• Melloul-Blamey Construction
• Vortex Fire
• HGC
• Dean-Lane Contractors Inc
• Stecho Electric
• Contract Framing Group