What sets Toronto apart from other cities?
We went below the city’s gray surface to reveal some of Toronto’s hidden ‘gems’—the unique stories, spaces and energy that make this city distinct.
Background
Toronto’s identity is somewhat undefined and evolving, leaving it open to interpretation. Few urban landmarks do distinguish place so the question arises—what makes Toronto an enjoyable experience? In partnership with OCAD University, we worked with 3rd-year design students to reveal and showcase Toronto assets that may elude visitors and even residents.
Research and Community Engagement
• Desk research to learn about place demographics and history
• Site visits to observe urban public spaces
• One-on-one interviews with key stakeholders to understand the neighbourhood experience from the users point of view.
Based on insights gathered from research and engagement activities, students developed tools to facilitate the design process including:
• Personas representing fictional portraits of interviewees
• Map of stakeholders’ journey in neighbourhoods to help pinpoint opportunity areas
Design
In an iterative design process, students designed experience solutions to address peoples’ needs. Selected design solutions were exhibited at City Hall.
