Town of Perth Showcases Student Design Concepts for Tay Basin

The Town of Perth is inviting residents to explore new and creative ideas for the future of the Tay Basin through a public exhibition on Friday, April 10.

As part of a partnership with the University of Toronto’s John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design, students have developed conceptual designs that reimagine the Tay Basin as a flexible, accessible, and community-focused public space.

The competition is being coordinated locally by architect Adam Mackenzie Smith, with the Town participating as a community partner.

“These ideas offer a unique opportunity to explore what the Tay Basin could become,” says Cathy McNally, Director of Community Services. “While the designs are conceptual, they help spark important conversations about how we use and experience public spaces in Perth.”

The design concepts consider a range of factors, including community events, pedestrian movement, accessibility, tourism, and the integration of existing features such as the Crystal Palace and Rideau Trail.

The Town emphasizes that the designs are exploratory in nature. Participation in the competition does not commit the Town to implementation, funding, or future projects.

Residents are encouraged to attend the Tay Basin Landscape Ideas Competition Showcase to view the submissions and share their thoughts.

Event Details:
Crystal Palace (31 Basin Lane)
Friday, April 10, 2026
7-9 p.m.

This initiative reflects the Town’s commitment to collaboration, community engagement, and supporting post-secondary education.

For more information, visit Engage.Perth.ca/TayBasin.