by OpenCity Projects

When designing for culturally diverse communities, public spaces should offer “something for everyone.” People from different cultural backgrounds may have different expectations of a place based on their individual needs and past experiences. Offering variety in a space helps people to feel comfortable knowing that they will find something, a place or an activity, that appeals to them. A safe, comfortable space helps to lower psychological and social barriers and is a stepping stone to connecting cultures.

We see this idea in action at Scadding Court Community Centre in downtown Toronto. The centre has pools, community gardens, a library and a unique outdoor market made of retrofitted shipping containers. The market offers affordable, international foods that reflect the diverse surrounding neighbourhood and everyday services that give people a reason to keep coming back. The variety of activities, foods and informal nature of the space attract people from all backgrounds and allow them to comfortably enjoy the space.

Dufferin Grove Park offers unique seating, physical amenities and spaces that allow a broad range of activities including a playground, basketball court, vegetable garden, pizza oven, ice rink and grassy areas with fire pits. Programs, such as community dinners, also appeal to a diverse community and help bring people together. When a place offers something for everyone, it attracts diverse groups of people and gives them a way to enjoy a space.