Devonian Gardens

"As a child, one of my favourite places to visit was the urban garden at the east end of the Core mall in downtown Calgary. The progression to the gardens felt like an ascension to a greater space to my young mind. My parents would park in the cave-like underground lot, and we’d have to walk past the noisy and overwhelming storefronts. Eventually we’d climb the stairs to arrive at Devonian Gardens. I would run through the seemingly endless and wild jungle. The garden fell off the sides of the main floor like water in an infinity pool, making the space feel enormous while I played hide-and-seek. Plant-lined pathways and stairwells caught the greenery and offered more play space. I remember the central pond, stocked with Koi fish and turtles, and how you could interact with them using food purchased at a repurposed bubble-gum dispenser. Devonian Gardens has since been renovated, but when I returned to take the accompanying photo, the memories were rekindled and I felt some of the same childlike joy. The space acted as an of oasis of respite and made me feel distant from the bustling mall. There were opportunities to engage in the site in public seating areas, or you could find more privacy on the aforementioned lower, outer levels of the gardens. The gardens offer a direct biophilic connection with their large biomass of plants, but even the sculptural structures outside the gardens on Stephen Ave evoke a similar sense of natural awe with their towering, forms. They could be trees, leaves or even strands of DNA, but what is important is their form’s unmistakable connection to nature. In my mind, Devonian Gardens will always illustrate the way an alliance between the built and natural environment enhances the quality of a space." (Booklet Positive Lived Experiences of Quality in the Built Environment 2023, p.184). Google Map link: https://goo.gl/maps/DxD9pLg7SmQ8m2dj6

"I believe that a positive experience of quality in the built environment should not only meet the practical needs of its users but also elevate their overall experience. One concrete example of such a positive experience of quality can be found in Devonian Gardens, nestled atop a bustling shopping mall in the heart of downtown Calgary. Devonian Gardens is not just an ordinary indoor garden; it's a sanctuary amidst the urban chaos, where nature intertwines seamlessly with modernity. Upon stepping into this botanical oasis, one is immediately enveloped in a sensory symphony. The diverse array of plants and trees, complemented by tranquil fish ponds and the soothing melody of fountains, creates an ambiance of serenity and tranquility. The expansive windows usher in natural light, illuminating the space with warmth and vitality, enhancing the overall sensory experience. What truly sets Devonian Gardens apart is its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. With features catering to individuals of all abilities, such as ramps and designated spaces, it ensures that everyone can partake in the beauty and tranquility it offers. Moreover, the presence of informative signs and labeled plants fosters a spirit of curiosity and exploration, enriching visitors' understanding of the natural world. Beyond its practical elements, Devonian Gardens delights with its artistic touches. Sculptures and artworks pepper the landscape, adding an extra layer of visual appeal and cultural richness. The inclusion of a kids' playground and a climbing wall further enhances its versatility, catering to visitors of all ages and interests. Also, one cannot overlook the impeccable cleanliness and maintenance of the space, which adds to its allure as a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. It serves as a perfect spot to unwind and recharge, offering respite to weary souls seeking solace in nature's embrace. In a city like Calgary, where the harsh climate often limits outdoor activities, Devonian Gardens emerges as a beacon of hope, offering a vital connection to nature. It not only fulfills a practical need but also addresses a deeper yearning for communion with the natural world. In essence, Devonian Gardens exemplifies a positive experience of quality—a space that transcends its utilitarian function to become a sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul." (Booklet Positive Lived Experiences of Quality in the Built Environment 2024, p.77). Photo by The Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA). Google map link: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Devonian+Gardens/@51.0464821,-114.0691147,15z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x53716ffcd3842161:0x1df3b5bbf0b7135c!8m2!3d51.0464821!4d-114.0691147!16zL20vMGdkMjU2?entry=ttu