Claire Leverton

Unearthing History for the Future

Garrison Creek, like many lost water systems within Toronto, was once a functioning natural ecosystem. With the rapid rise of development however it became necessary to replace this feature with an underground sewer system. In terms of practical issues this solution was fitting for the time, however it did not come without its drawbacks. Today areas along this creek path suffer from frequent flooding and citizens only get to appreciate a small portion of the natural landscape that used to exist. Leading us to the question of how we can restore the past experiential qualities of this creek, while integrating a productive natural system for the future.In my thesis project I have used the lost natural feature of Garrison Creek as a starting point to address our need for more authentic connections to nature, within the city. In choosing various sites along this old creek path I have been able to explore small, medium and large scale strategies for addressing this issue. Where residential streets become a network of permeable surfaces, neighborhood parkettes are supported by strategic planting and finally large park areas are unearthed to reveal the features and ecosystems sitting below us. Together all these spaces help carve a natural line through the hard grid of the city and restore nature.In terms of benefits this project is as much about the experiential as it is about productivity. Users within the city will be able connect to nature in their day to day lives. No longer having to sacrifice an abundance of nature for the convenience of city life. In terms of productivity this project will help support our cities in the changes arising with climate change. With areas around this previous creek system already suffering from flooding and increased rainfall occurring much more frequently, here we can create a truly symbiotic system. Where the process of slow absorption and release helps protect our spaces. While nature's prominent presence in our cities helps new ecosystems to grow and prosper, while the old ones are healed and reborn.

“"Throughout cities today residents are living with insufficient connections to an authentic natural environment. This is due to our lack of prioritization in preserving natural features. However, if we chose to highlight these spaces and bring them to the forefront of our city experience, we could begin to harness the experiential and productive benefits of these environments. This would allow us to forge a more symbiotic relationship with nature. Where the integration of natural systems would aid our need to adapt for the changing climate, as well as the natural world's need to heal and grow."”