AURORA LIBRARY SQUARE
Aurora, ON

Aurora Library Square is a dynamic new public square in Aurora, Ontario’s historic downtown promenade neighbourhood. Centered between the newly renovated Aurora Public Library and newly expanded Aurora Cultural Centre, the Square features a diverse range of exciting, highly programmable spaces for all seasons and all age groups. During the winter months, a skating loop emerges as the focal point of the square. Complete with an overhead catenary lighting system that changes colour and plays music for all occasions, users can skate the loop or relax in the brightly coloured furnishings arranged throughout the site. During warmer months, the skating loop transforms into an interactive water feature in which children and adults alike can cool off. The design also includes a large amphitheater which can host community performances, film nights, or simply be a place to relax with friends and family.    

The Planning Partnership led design also features a robust planting palette carefully selected to be biodiverse, seasonally interesting, and to appropriately frame each space. A key element of the project is the large holiday tree that sits atop the amphitheater.

Aurora Library Square aims to become a community anchor for the Town of Aurora. The design is able to accommodate a large variety of community events and its location between some of Aurora’s most important civic buildings allows for community programming to spill over between interior and exterior spaces.