Discover the partnership websiteLiving Atlas of Quality
Image credit: Sneha Maliat Haque
I have a summer position at the Boathouse in Bowness Park, and every year I look forward to the arrival of summer so I can return to this role and spend time working outdoors. Being at the park has made me appreciate how beautifully the boathouse and its deck are designed. The deck feels intimate and welcoming, while also creating opportunities for excitement and refreshment through boating activities. From the deck, the flowing water, surrounding greenery, and vibrant human activities are all visible at once. Together, they create a living natural canvas where movement, colour, and interaction blend into a lively yet calming atmosphere. What makes this place memorable for me is how naturally it brings together recreation, landscape, and human connection, transforming an ordinary summer day into a shared and refreshing experience. Even during the winter season, the space continues to remain active through skating activities. As a winter city, Calgary embraces these seasonal experiences, but at Bowness Park they are arranged in a particularly intimate and accessible way through skate rentals and supportive facilities. This adaptability across seasons makes the space an excellent example of inclusive and people-oriented public design.