1x1 architecture was engaged by the City of Winnipeg to lead the feasibility study, functional programming, and conceptual design for a new recreation centre serving the rapidly growing Bonavista neighbourhood and surrounding southeast Winnipeg communities. Located within Fraipont Park, the project establishes a long-term vision for a vibrant community hub that seamlessly integrates indoor recreation, outdoor amenities, and public gathering spaces.

The design responds to the park setting by organizing the building and site as a connected civic landscape. A welcoming public plaza creates a prominent community entrance, while generous glazing and flexible interior spaces strengthen the connection between indoor programs and outdoor activity. Designed to evolve alongside the community, the facility supports a wide range of recreation, wellness, cultural, and social programming for residents of all ages.

The planning process was informed by demographic analysis, an assessment of existing recreation services, and an extensive public and stakeholder engagement program. Through surveys, workshops, and a community open house, residents and stakeholders helped shape the building program, site organization,



and recreational amenities, ensuring the proposed facility reflects local priorities while responding to the needs of one of Winnipeg's fastest-growing neighbourhoods.

Recognizing the City's phased funding strategy, 1x1 developed a adaptable implementation plan that allows the recreation centre to grow over time. The initial phase introduces multi-purpose program spaces, a community kitchen, meeting rooms, and welcoming public amenities, while a future expansion adds a full-sized gymnasium and additional indoor recreation space. The surrounding park is enhanced with pickleball and basketball courts, multi-use green space, outdoor gathering areas, and improved pedestrian connections that strengthen the relationship between the recreation centre and the broader park network.

Client: City of Winnipeg

Type: Recreational

Construction Value: N/A

Date of Completion: Unbuilt

Area: 2,300 sq.ft. (215 s.m.)

Consultant Team

Prime Consultant: 1x1 architecture inc.

Civil: KGS Group

Structural: Crosier Kilgour

Mechanical: KGS Group

Electrical: KGS Group

Landscape: HTFC Planning and Design

📌 Bonavista Recreation Centre
🏢 1x1 architecture
📍 Bonavista