Carmen Corbasson Community Centre has been named a recipient of the 2026 Ontario Association of Architects Design Excellence Award, marking a significant achievement for the City of Mississauga. The prestigious award recognizes projects that demonstrate architectural excellence and make a meaningful contribution to the communities they serve.
The Community Centre, which re-opened in 2025 following extensive renovations, was selected and recognized for its thoughtful design, sustainable features, and strong focus on community use. The project reflects the City’s commitment to delivering high‑quality public spaces that meet the needs of residents. The facility was designed by Toronto-based firm, Diamond Schmitt Architects and was constructed by Aquicon Construction. It was delivered through a collaborative effort involving City teams from Facilities and Property Management, Recreation and Culture, and Parks, Forestry and Environment.
About the design
Designed as a “pavilion in the forest,” re-designed Carmen Corbasson Community Centre strengthens its relationship to its woodland surroundings through a simple rectangular mass timber structure, introducing transparency and framing nature as an active participant in daily recreation. The 45,000-square-foot expansion integrates a pool, fitness centre, and aerobics studio with the existing arena and gymnasium complex.
Unifying multiple construction eras, the project extends the original building’s architectural logic while resolving circulation and accessibility challenges, and drawing daylight deep into the interior. The result is a design that expands programming opportunities, while renewing the centre’s role as a vibrant community hub.
Background
The Ontario Association of Architects Design Excellence Awards recognize outstanding architectural projects across the province that demonstrate design quality and a positive impact on communities.
In 2026, the Ontario Association of Architects selected 20 finalists through a jury of design professionals. This year’s finalists represent a range of building types, including sustainably designed community centres, innovative housing projects, revitalized academic and cultural facilities, and transformative public spaces.
The awards highlight the work of Ontario architects who design spaces, buildings and communities that enhance the environment and support meaningful human activity.
Quotes
“Being recognized with a 2026 Ontario Association of Architects Design Excellence Award is a tremendous honour for the City of Mississauga and for everyone involved in delivering the redevelopment of Carmen Corbasson Community Centre. This facility reflects our commitment to high-quality, sustainable design that supports community well-being and creates lasting value for residents. I am incredibly proud of the interdisciplinary City teams whose collaboration and dedication brought this vision to life.” – Raj Sheth, Commissioner, Community Services
“This recognition reflects the leadership and collaboration behind the project, from early design through delivery. By working closely with our project partners, we were able to create a well-designed space that balances design excellence with functionality, sustainability and community needs.” – Anna Cascioli, Director, Facilities & Property Management
