There is a growing world of young change-makers out there ready to make a difference!

This was evident at the inaugural OTS Landscape Design Challenge that took place January 19. University and college teams from across Ontario were challenged to incorporate recycled tire products and ecological design in preserving and restoring an urban environment at Evergreen Brickworks. Students developed their designs in response to a strict set of real life design parameters such as site dimensions, available tire-derived products and budget restrictions.

The challenge required fresh perspectives and rethinking the conventional. It meant contacting recycled product manufacturers to determine if non-traditional uses for existing tire-derived products could be achieved, and exploring the best ways the site could be re-conceived to support its purpose as a gathering hub for the adjoining spaces at the Brick Works.

The students’ presentations told the story of a space that would be alive with small children testing their motor skills on low “pod” structures, yoga groups making their sun salutations, people exchanging ideas in a citizen’s court area, and of strolling along pathways that mimic an adjacent watercourse. I was particularly impressed by how the teams researched and took into consideration, not just the existing industrial feel of the site, but also the Brick Works’ rich heritage.

These leaders of tomorrow are helping to teach us a thing or two about designing outdoor spaces and have provided me with some inspiration for my own backyard. The design created by the winning team from Humber will be built at Evergreen Brick Works this spring. To learn more about the OTS Design Challenge, watch the highlights reel below or visit RethinkTires.ca/DesignChallenge.