Public outdoor spaces with a connection to nature are playing an increasingly important role in the design of urban settings today. Offering an escape from city noise and an opportunity for fresh air, these urban outdoor environments are vital to the well-being and quality of life of urban dwellers.

Located at 2131 Yonge St., the Art Shoppe Condos is a 28-storey tower and 12-storey podium complex defined by a series of projecting white concrete boxes framing balconies. On the third level, a lush courtyard framed by a garden wall of boxwood hedges and lined with statuesque trees offer a tranquil retreat for relaxing or an inspiring setting for yoga. A series of organic-shaped sculptural benches provides a playful perch to lounge. This cloud-like seating, along with other modern touches such as polished stainless steel ring planters, offsets the elegant formal geometry of the courtyard plan.

Atop the podium on the thirteenth level is a rich array of amenities for entertaining, working out, or simply unwinding from the stresses of the day. The infinity pool is one of the longest in the city, set against the backdrop of a breathtaking view of the Toronto skyline. It compliments a serene, intimate light-filled space where fitness classes and fireside lounge gatherings can take place and – most importantly – indoors and outdoors seemingly become one.