The practice

As an integral part of design for the new building completed in 2006, Carlyle Design proposed and developed guiding concepts for a program of art and special installations. The hospital assigned 1% of the value of construction to fund the program, building on their deep understanding of the value of the arts to the health and well-being of clients, families and staff. 

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Over 30 installations are woven throughout the grounds and inside the building. Created by Canadian professional artists and artists from Bloorview's Centre for the Arts, some working hands-on with kids and families, they tell stories of Holland Bloorview: of innovation and transformation; of the hospital's ravine-edge site and connections to the beauty and rhythms of the natural world; and of history and community.

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Over three years, Carlyle Design lead the process: articulation of concepts, calls to artists and commissioning, coordination with artists during their art-making processes including with the architectural team and contractors, through to final installations.

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The varied works appeal to all ages, engage and delight the senses, and create opportunities for discovery, play, expression, learning and rehabilitation. They celebrate a richness of media and materials – stone, wood, glass, clay, metal, canvas and light. 

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Each was conceived for a specific location, helping to animate and landmark the building, providing orientation and encouraging journeying.

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In the ensuing years since 2006, Holland Bloorview has continued their commitment to art and art-making and Carlyle Design has assisted with the development of additional installations integrated with interior renovations. 

 

Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital project page.

Holland Bloorview MRI project page.

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Photographs by Carl Tacon, Tom Arban and Anne Carlyle

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