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TORONTO – New renderings unveiled by Therme Canada of a new waterpark and wellness facility at Ontario Place’s West Island show an elaborate, sprawling site with twisting and turning waterslides and other areas inspired by global spa traditions.

The designs were developed by architecture firm Diamond Schmitt alongside Therme ARC, in collaboration with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, STUDIO tla and Trophic Design, states a release.

Over the years, Therme has released several design iterations for the West Island project.

Opposition groups have been vocal about its look, stating Ontario Place should stay in the public realm and a “spa” doesn’t fit the bill.

According to a fact sheet from Therme, the building footprint is now 32,600 m2, a reduction of 14 per cent; the building height of two structures is now 43.5 metres and 22 metres, a reduction of six per cent and 22 per cent respectively; and there will be four Indigenous place keeping sites.

The development has also been criticized by Ontario’s auditor general, who stated in December 2024 the company got special access to provincial executives during a submission process that was not fair or transparent.

Late last month, Premier Doug Ford unveiled final designs for the revamped Ontario Place, which were led by LANDInc.

It will include a five-storey parking garage that will cost taxpayers $400 million. But it will have a great return on investment from parking fees, Ford said.

Overall, Therme states the West Island site integrates 16 acres of publicly accessible parkland, walking trails, beaches, cultural gathering areas and nature play zones along Toronto’s western waterfront, which are free and open year-round.

“This design offers a globally inspired wellness experience that is also grounded in a distinctly Canadian identity and informed by the landscape of Ontario,” said Gary McCluskie, principal at Diamond Schmitt, in a statement. “It blends nature and architecture in a way that makes the waterfront more inviting, inclusive and alive.  Every element of this design — from the pavilions to the plantings to the play spaces — invites people to connect, reflect and share.”

In addition to the waterpark, which will have 20-plus slides, and wellness centre, Therme states there will be three relaxation pools, one wave pool, six mineral pools, 14 saunas, nine steam rooms, cold plunges, cold showers, an ice fountain and relaxation areas. 

The site will also pay tribute to the original Ontario Place with a focus on families and inclusion with an area dedicated to water activities and food and beverage offerings. A botanical gardens will be included.

“Our collaboration with Trophic Design on the West Island public park lands represents a holistic approach to landscape design that goes beyond esthetics,” added Jeffrey Craft, partner and managing director STUDIO tla. “By integrating universal design principles with Indigenous consultation, ecological restoration and year-round programming, we’ve created a space that truly serves everyone in the community.”