Therme Canada has unveiled updated designs for its new spa and waterpark project at Ontario Place, marking a noticeable shift from the original proposal.
Created in collaboration with Diamond Schmitt Architects, Therme ARC, and with input from the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, STUDIO tla, and Trophic Design, the refreshed plan places a greater emphasis on public and green spaces.
STUDIO tla's drawings of what Therme's facilities will look like at Ontario Place.Therme Group | Handout
Therme says the new vision is focused on reconnecting people with land and water, with Indigenous-informed design elements, free year-round access to parkland, and immersive family-friendly areas.
The updated plans include 16 acres of publicly accessible space along Toronto's western waterfront, featuring walking trails, beaches, cultural gathering areas, and nature play zones.
Plans for the new spa and wellness centre. Therme Group | Handout
At the core of the site is Therme's spa and wellness centre, where visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including sliding down waterslides, soaking in thermal pools, relaxing in saunas, and lounging in globally inspired wellness spaces.
A separate family zone will offer wave pools, food options, and botanical gardens.
The waterpark.Therme Group | Handout
However, despite the updates, the project remains surrounded by controversy. Critics have pushed back on the removal of trees from the original Ontario Place grounds and questioned the impact of privatizing part of the waterfront.
In April, a New York Times investigation raised concerns about Therme's track record, alleging that the company overstated the number of spas it operates in Europe while pitching the Ontario deal.
Despite this, the provincial government has committed to the redevelopment, granting the Austrian company a 95-year lease (a 75-year deal with the option to extend for an additional 20 years).
The wavepool at Therme Pool.Therme Group | Handout
In June, the province shared its own updated plans for Ontario Place, promising over 50 acres of new public green space, including free trails, playgrounds, beaches, interactive fountains, and event areas.
Ontario Place originally opened in 1971 and was once a major waterfront attraction. After years of decline, the province aims to transform the area into one of Toronto's largest downtown parks, attracting up to six million visitors annually and creating over 5,000 jobs in construction and tourism.
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