"When reflecting on positive experiences of quality in my own life there are two places which stand out. Both places are often used as community gathering spots and as such have formed fond memories.
Downtown Orangeville, Ontario: I was fortunate to grow up in a town which prioritized place making and preservation. Downtown Orangeville has served many purposes for over 160 years; however, it has always been a place for the community to gather. The design of the built environment has remained the same over period of time meaning that a collective memory through familiar street scape creates a sense of collective community through memory which can be passed down through generations and new commers to the town. Downtown Orangeville hosts several events and festivals throughout the year which always attract large crowds.
Toronto Distillery District: The Distillery District in Toronto attracts events and festivals year-round and through doing so attracts diverse crowds from around the world. The Distillery District is a great example of how durable and resilient design can be used and repurposed for as the socioeconomic fabric of the city changes." (Booklet Positive Lived Experiences of Quality in the Built Environment 2023, p.154)
Google map link:
Orangeville Downtown: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Orangeville+Town+Hall/@43.9203388,-80.0963416,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x882b009ced85555d:0x69ecc076024c0948!8m2!3d43.9203388!4d-80.0941529!16s%2Fg%2F11ckqr7myr
Toronto Distillery District: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Distillery+District,+Toronto,+ON/@43.6505494,-79.3687429,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89d4cb3dc701c609:0xc3e729dcdb566a16!8m2!3d43.6503055!4d-79.35958!16zL20vMDcwNDBw
Publication:16 September 2025
