Brunswick Streetscape Revitalization

The design creates a new urban streetscape in downtown Halifax that reengages and reinvigorates three monolithic, 1970s-era residential towers and a parking garage.

The initial goal was simply to refurbish the infrastructure and waterproofing conditions throughout the desolate, disconnected block. HOK’s team identified the opportunity to do more by creating a lively, mixed-use neighborhood connecting Brunswick Street to the city’s urban center. The design concept inserts a new street-level podium into the base of the buildings, providing dynamic new frontages for retail and commercial opportunities. This simple intervention transforms the street into a vibrant, walkable neighborhood.

This new streetscape creates continuous visual interest and engagement along Brunswick Street while capitalizing on views of the nearby Citadel Hill National Historic Site and scenic Halifax Harbor. A skywalk enhances the pedestrian experience and links the neighborhood to downtown.

HOK’s long-term master plan includes partial replacement of parallel parking with pedestrian-scaled street trees and plantings that offer comfortable microclimatic conditions for all seasons.