Moriyama Teshima Architects

This major expansion and renovation doubled the size of the West District Library, the second-highest circulating branch in the Ottawa Public Library system, and created welcoming, engaging, light–filled and technology-enabled public spaces. The two-storey addition established a far more substantial visual presence for the library, welcoming patrons with a transparent facade of floor-to-ceiling glass and an entrance terrace with seating areas and naturalized gardens. 

In joint venture with Kasian Architecture, Interior Design, and Planning, Moriyama Teshima Architects was commissioned to develop a master plan for Surrey City Centre, and design a new City Hall facility and Civic Plaza, embracing family life, recreation, and spiritual health within a seamlessly integrated landscape. Surrey City Hall and Civic Plaza form the heart and gateway of Surrey Civic Centre. Registered LEED Gold, the City Hall and Plaza invite public engagement and social interaction year round, while exemplifying Surrey’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

The 4-year phased redevelopment occurred without interruption of traffic at one of the busiest Canada-U.S. border crossings. The goal was to improve services and security for commercial and private vehicles while establishing a welcoming gateway between the two nations. This intervention introduced improvements to plaza infrastructure, toll collection, and means of circulation.