Life Section Studio

Life Section Studio

portfolio of works by Elisabeth Vitswamba


Christie Pits is one of a network of parks that follows the old ravine systems of downtown Toronto. Forming a literal pit due to its past as a quarry site, the park has a disconnect from the surrounding urban environment. The design for an Urban Natatorium seeks to open a connection between the street, the park, and the subway, while serving as a flavourful public domain of health and wellness in the West side of Toronto.

featured in Projects Review exhibition by Waterloo Architecture at Design at Riverside, 2009

The roof, pools, and dry programs of the building act as floating layers that shift and move to create the specific spaces of passage and spectatorship within the building. A thick wall that follows the subway line serves as the structure, holds the mechanical systems, directs a clear path to the park, and becomes perforated to allow for daylighting and views.