Newmarket unveils final design concept for Mulock property

The town is one step closer to finalizing its master plan for the iconic community park and outdoor green space on the former estate lands at Yonge and Mulock

Newmarkettoday.ca
March 11, 2021

Last night, the final draft design concept for the iconic Mulock Property was revealed during a public engagement session hosted on Facebook Live. This reveal puts the town one step closer to developing and finalizing the master plan for this iconic community park/outdoor green space.

“Thank you to all the residents and stakeholders who came out to see the final design concept for the Mulock Property last night,” says Mayor John Taylor. “These design concepts were born from your feedback, stories and ideas and we are incredibly excited to be able to bring this space to life. With your help, we look forward, with great anticipation, to the completion of this magical place that will bring joy to the community for many years to come."

Highlights of the final design concepts for the Mulock Property include:

Entryway: Bridge and entry art feature
A proposed iconic gateway entrance art feature at the corner of the property at Yonge Street and Mulock Drive. The bridge would walk over an engineered wetland and create an entrance point to draw people into the landmark property.

Historic Mulock House
The exact occupancy for the Mulock House has not been decided yet. However, the house and the main lawn is being considered for a cafe/restaurant as the majority of community engagement found that accessible and affordable food is priority. It is also proposed that the usage for the main floor could be an event space and cafe, while upstairs could be an art display/gallery/art studios or innovation offices.

Great lawn
The great lawn is a very large wide-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. The majority of the community engagement indicated that preserving natural features is a top priority.

Skating trail
A significant skate trail is proposed to run through the forest at the north end of the property and will include skate rentals and bathrooms.

Splash pad
A small skating rink can convert to a 'wet plaza' for the summer with low water (puddle-like) for splashing and water play. Opportunity for picnic tables, seating and 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) would create an indoor/outdoor experience with views of the sky and tree canopy. This would transform the original garage and create a space for four season greenery and education.

Jim Bond Park and natural playground
The design concept introduces a large natural playground in the existing Jim Bond Park area which will connect with the Mulock Property. This park could use natural wood from trees that were removed from the Mulock site to mimic a large tree fallen on its side with roots and branches and become a play and learning area for kids (and adults!).

Historic gardens
Historically, the Mulock property was renowned for its gardens. The design plan proposes restoring many elements of the historic gardens such as the fencing and seating and plantings. Iconic peony beds that still exist on the property would be relocated to the garden areas. A reflecting pool is also 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 through the engagement phases. The community was also interested in recognizing diverse histories in creative ways, which can be further explored in various ways, including proposed Indigenous gardens as a tribute to the Indigenous roots of the property and the first stewards of this land.

Artist Studio
The proposed artist studio provides temporary art space for day-use artist residencies to support the arts community.

Next steps for the Mulock Property
The final master plan is expected to be presented to council in spring 2021. At that time, next steps for the project and how Newmarket residents can stay involved will be discussed.

Residents who didn't get a chance to tune into the Facebook live event can view an archived video of the event. Stay up-to-date with the Mulock Property by signing up for our newsletter and/or providing us your feedback at newmarket.ca/mymulock.

For more information on the timelines and the engagement process, please visit newmarket.ca/mymulock.