The Evergreen Brick Works Infrastructure Upgrade project consists of multiple phases of work on the Brick Works campus aimed at improving the infrastructure and connections between outdoor spaces, as well as retrofits of the Children’s Garden, chimney restoration and the TD Future Cities Centre, all with a focus on sustainability and wellness.

Gillam was retained as the Construction Manager on the project which involves upgrades to this former brick factory which was transformed into a unique community recreation hub in the Don River Valley area of Toronto. The design was led by LGA Architectural Partners and DTAH in a joint venture.

The project included a new amphitheatre, named after Evergreen Foundation’s founder, Geoff Cape, which features a feather-shaped, timber-framed canopy structure for shelter and shade with concrete foundations, new seating and engineered wood fiber ground cover to make the area more accessible to visitors.

The scope of work for the Children’s Garden also included excavation of existing ground material in select areas; installation of a new gathering circle; installation of new amphitheater seating; installation of new ground sub-surfacing; installation of lighting and electrical services; and relocation of mechanical services.

The gathering circle’s design includes slate paving slabs etched with animal tracks, reclaimed bricks manufactured when the site was an active brick production site and stone mosaics with materials gathered from the shores of Lake Ontario and composed of children’s artwork.

Chimney repairs involved the localized replacement of deteriorated brick and mortar and removal and disposal of the pre-finished metal cap located at the top.

On Building 16, which was formerly the kiln building and is the largest building on the site, the team reinforced roof trusses and perimeter columns. The scope of work also included drainage improvements on the site.

Work was performed while maximizing regular operations of the campus. Gillam is excited to start the next phase of improvements.

Evergreen Brick Works sits on the historic site of the former Don Valley Brick Works quarry that was active until 1984. Evergreen Foundation, a Canadian non-profit organization, began reconstructing the site in 2008 and works were completed in 2010.