Bloomfield Square, the site of the abandoned Bloomfield School, is located in the North end of Halifax between Robie, Almon, and Agricola streets. The surrounding context contains mostly residential buildings, with some restaurants and shops. Near the Bloomfield site there are several ongoing construction projects. These developments are introducing mid-rise buildings to the area. A design for an affordable housing development with varying heights, not exceeding 10 storeys, takes advantage of the potential for housing units while gradually introducing more storeys to a mainly residential area. Bloomfield Square provides a total of 147 units to the area with a variety of unit types to suit the needs of the many kinds of people in need of housing in Halifax. Bloomfield Square utilizes the existing heritage buildings from the original school, with exception to the very institutional-style addition from the 1970s. The design shares the footprint of the current building, but brings housing density to the site. The ground level opens up to the surrounding streets. Entrance to the residences are accessible and direct. A courtyard between the heritage buildings and residential towers draws in residents and community members alike. The courtyard adds to the commercial fabric of both Robie and Agricola streets and brings a spacious outdoor space to the neighbourhood.
Erin Connor
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