Brampton has selected a striking new design concept for the redevelopment of Ken Whillans and Garden Squares, with construction on Ken Whillans Square set to begin this fall.
The winning concept, called The Flower Squares, will be brought to life by Canadian architecture firm gh3* in partnership with international landscape designers Mandaworks. Inspired by Brampton’s floral heritage, the redesign aims to reimagine the two prominent civic spaces as vibrant destinations that blend expressive landscaping, sculptural architecture and symbolic motifs to support daily activities, public gatherings and cultural programming.
Mayor Patrick Brown hailed the project as a direct response to what residents, businesses and community stakeholders have long asked for, calling the redesign both bold and creative.
Located in front of City Hall, Ken Whillans Square will be transformed into a ceremonial and event space adjoining Gage Park. It will feature the Shimmer Stage, an integrated digital screen and landscaped berms that protect mature trees while creating an informal amphitheatre.
Garden Square, meanwhile, will be revitalized as a cultural hub with the Rosette Ring — a suspended LED screen set to become a new civic landmark. The redesign also introduces an upgraded amphitheatre terrace that connects directly to The Rose theatre.
Both squares are being designed for year-round use, with new infrastructure to host public art, markets and community festivals.
The selection followed a two-phase international design competition run under the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada’s competition guidelines, ensuring transparency, fairness and innovation. Public and stakeholder input, including feedback from downtown Brampton businesses, played a major role in shaping the outcome.
Next steps for Garden Square will align with other downtown revitalization projects, including the Main and Queen Streets streetscaping plan and the redevelopment of city-owned properties along Main Street North. Construction will roll out in stages to minimize disruptions while ensuring the downtown core remains active and accessible.