The All-Season Patios

type:        public space, commercial, unsolicited proposal
year:        2020




One of the unexpected outcomes of the challenging times we’re living through is that people are taking advantage of our agreeable climate and urban life is being lived outside. Sidewalk patios have popped up in parking spaces, empty lots, and underused plazas. For restaurants, this outdoor seating has been a financial lifeline without which they may not have been able to keep their doors open. 

We wanted to help entice the city to keep the temporary patios  year round. These temporary structures would help the businesses weather the pandemic and their customers the elements, be it rain or sun.

This global crisis has presented both challenges and opportunities. Most Canadians (and most Vancouverites) are keen to do their part to keep everyone safe. This effort must continue for many more months, at least. We need to find ways to keep people invested in that collective mission. One way we, as designers, think that can be done is to bring as much joy as possible to that cause.

Winter sidewalks full of creative, temporary spaces where diners can socialize would help businesses weather the challenging months ahead and would help sustain morale. More importantly still, it would challenge us to think differently about our city in ways that will echo beyond this challenging year.


The All-Season Patios

type:        public space, commercial, unsolicited proposal
year:        2020




One of the unexpected outcomes of the challenging times we’re living through is that people are taking advantage of our agreeable climate and urban life is being lived outside. Sidewalk patios have popped up in parking spaces, empty lots, and underused plazas. For restaurants, this outdoor seating has been a financial lifeline without which they may not have been able to keep their doors open.

We wanted to help entice the city to keep the temporary patios  year round. These temporary structures would help the businesses weather the pandemic and their customers the elements, be it rain or sun.

This global crisis has presented both challenges and opportunities. Most Canadians (and most Vancouverites) are keen to do their part to keep everyone safe. This effort must continue for many more months, at least. We need to find ways to keep people invested in that collective mission. One way we, as designers, think that can be done is to bring as much joy as possible to that cause.

Winter sidewalks full of creative, temporary spaces where diners can socialize would help businesses weather the challenging months ahead and would help sustain morale. More importantly still, it would challenge us to think differently about our city in ways that will echo beyond this challenging year.