Architect group launches study and survey to improve Ottawa’s ByWard Market

Architects DCA is sharing the results of a self-directed research and design report on the untapped potential of Ottawa's ByWard Market. 

Key themes included vehicular dependence, the importance of density, and examples of similar public places that have thrived where the ByWard Market has failed. 

This report provides a three-phase approach to maximizing the potential of the historic landmark.

A comprehensive visual display is available from until November 13, on the ground floor of the ByWard Market Square Building. The report is available online. 

Architects DCA says the ByWard Market has been long considered by many urban critics as an overall failure in effective public place-making, but Toon Dreessen of Architects DCA is optimistic about the future of the space.

“I firmly believe the ByWard Market can once again be a vibrant, bustling public space that is a draw for tourists and locals alike,” says Dreessen. “But in order to be successful, political will and a deep public commitment to a less automobile-centred environment is vital.”

To learn more about the efforts towards creating a better ByWard Market, Architects DCA is inviting residents to contact Dreessen at 613-725-2294, 613-276-6695 or on Twitter at @ArchitectsDCA. 

Thoughts and ideas can also be shared on social media, using the hashtag #BetterByWard.

For those that read the ByWard Market Study, the firm is also asking that they take a moment to fill out a brief survey that will help it understand what ByWard Market issues matter most.