ROM Welcome Project - Plaza and Public Realm

Toronto, ON

The Welcome Project, Plaza, and Public Realm reconceive the open space surrounding the Royal Ontario Museum to transform how the institution greets and interacts with its visitors. One of four ROM Centennial legacy projects, the Plaza creates a new outdoor gallery and green space for the city.

The revitalized public promenade harmonizes the area around the original 1914 building, the Daniel Libeskind Crystal, and the entrance to Philosopher’s Walk. Gardens, informal gathering areas, and an outdoor performance space dynamically bring museum content to life outside the building walls.

The revitalization of the public promenade surrounding the ROM enhances the pedestrian experience. Whether arriving at the main entrance on Bloor Street West or from the subway station on Queens Park, visitors are welcomed by an immersive and interactive environment even before entering the building.

Project Facts
Client
Royal Ontario Museum
Location
Toronto, ON
Status
Completed 2019
Size
13,600 sq. ft.
Partner
Siamak Hariri

The design of this public space brings the totality of the ROM – the original 1914 building, the Daniel Libeskind-designed Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, Philosopher’s Walk to the west, its two street frontages, and its world-renowned collections– together in a bold and singular gesture.

From every approach, visitors encounter an immersive, interactive and stimulating public space. Biodiversity gardens along the promenade contain all-season plantings to ensure greenery throughout the year.

The revitalized public promenade surrounding the ROM enhances the pedestrian experience; whether arriving at the Main Entrance on Bloor Street West or from the subway station on Queens Park, visitors are welcomed by an immersive and interactive environment even before entering the building.