Plan for Newmarket's Mulock farm includes skating trail, artist residency, natural play area, historic gardens

Design concept to be presented to residents at public meeting in March

Yorkregion.com
Feb. 12, 2021
Lisa Queen

Newmarket is close to completing the final design for Mulock Farm.

Consultant Lisa Rapoport, of PLANT Architect Inc., on Feb. 9, presented the proposed concept design aimed at transforming the historic property into a landmark public space.

While minor changes could still come, this plan will be presented to residents at a public meeting in March.

Here are the highlights:

Entryway: Bridge and entry art feature

An iconic gateway entrance art feature is proposed for the corner of Yonge and Mulock. A bridge would lead either west along the Mulock side or north toward existing laneway. It would walk over an engineered wetland.

Historic Mulock House

The house and the main lawn will interact by trimming the large hedges to create a more cohesive space. The main floor of the house could be event space and the upstairs considered for art display/gallery or other creative uses. There would be a café/restaurant or other food offerings, a priority identified by residents during public consultation.

Great lawn

The great lawn is a large, open space in the centre of the property, surrounded by trees known as the walnut grove. This would remain a natural area for walking, picnicking and other passive recreation opportunities. Residents have said preserving natural features is a top priority.

Skating trail

A significant skating trail would run through the forest at the north end of the property. This would include skate rentals and a change area.

Splash pad

In the winter, the splash pad would act as a small ice rink. In summer, it could be converted to a wet plaza for splashing and water play. Picnic tables, seating and other art could further animate the space. There is the potential for a wide range of activities across seasons.

Conservatory

The concept for the conservatory (greenhouse) in the original garage would create an indoor/outdoor experience with views of the sky and tree canopy. This would be an area for greenery, education and could be used as an additional event space.

Artist residency

This would be a large studio space for the arts community. It would be designed to be open, allowing artists to easily engage with nature and the community.

Jim Bond Park and natural playground

A large natural playground would be created in the existing Jim Bond Park area, which would connect with the Mulock Property. This park could use natural wood from trees removed from the Mulock site. It would mimic a large tree fallen on its side with roots and branches and create a variety of play opportunities for kids.

Historic gardens

Historically, the Mulock property was renowned for its gardens, many of which would be restored. Iconic peony beds would be relocated here. A reflecting pool is included in the design, as well as a community fire pit to create a place for storytelling, a feature that has garnered strong community support. The community is also interested in recognizing diverse histories in creative ways, including the possibility of Indigenous gardens as a tribute to the Indigenous roots of the property and the first stewards of this land.