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This proposal is situated on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples–Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), Stó:lō and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations. It's our hope that discussion around this proposal can further the work of reconciliation.
Just steps from the Vancouver Aquarium, overgrown ruins speak quietly of a darker time. These enclosures were once home to the Vancouver Zoo's collection of polar bears but have sat empty since 1997. A year prior, residents voted in a public referendum to close the zoo. All the animals were relocated except "Tuk" - a polar bear who had grown too old to transport. Since Tuk's passing 29 years ago, this corner of Vancouver's most important public park has sat dormant.
This part of Vancouver's history deserves a new chapter
Imagine experiencing Stanley Park in a completely new way
In this proposal, the unused polar bear enclosure would be converted to a Nordic-style spa. Drawing on Nordic spa cultures around the world, this complex would become a public space for people to gather, socialize, and rest — especially during the wet winter months, when opportunities for connection and outdoor activity can feel limited.
Imagine dipping into a cold plunge just steps away from the Vancouver Aquarium, where, only a few decades ago, captive polar bears once swam. These enclosures were once home to the Vancouver Zoo's polar bear collection but have been empty since 1997. The site’s layered and complex history would make this sauna unlike any other in the world.
The proposal aims to thoughtfully re-engage a long-inaccessible corner of the park while adding to the diversity of experiences that make Stanley Park such a vital and beloved public space.
Reconciliation
Protecting the History and Natural Beauty of Stanley Park
This proposal is grounded in respect for Stanley Park’s unique history and natural environment. The intention of this proposal is rooted in respect for the local First Nations: Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, and their collaboration with the Vancouver Park Board. The intention is to thoughtfully reuse an existing structure while preserving the character and ecological integrity of the surrounding landscape.
If the project moves forward, the design approach would prioritize minimal environmental impact, careful integration with the natural setting, and protection of the park’s heritage features. The goal is to create a space that enhances public access and appreciation while honoring Stanley Park's cultural significance, natural beauty, and long-standing role as one of Vancouver’s most cherished places.
By reactivating an underused area with care and sensitivity, the proposal seeks to celebrate the park’s past while contributing to its future as a place for connection, reflection, and shared public experience.
We at TOAD are excited to partner with Basecamp Resorts, one of Western Canada’s leading mountain hotel operators, building on their experience creating Nordic spa spaces through their Everwild brand.
Everwild is a Nordic spa and hospitality brand built around thermal bathing, culturally respectful sauna practice, and thoughtful wellness programming, It strives to create restorative, year-round experiences that encourage connection to others, to place, and to a slower, more present way of spending time while remaining welcoming to both locals and visitors alike.
We’re sharing Everwild here as an example of the kind of approach that inspires this project, showing how thoughtful design and hospitality can come together to create a warm, restorative place for anyone to enjoy.
Everwild’s first Nordic spa opened in Canmore in 2025, with additional destinations in development across Western Canada. For Stanley Park, we’re proposing a careful reuse of the former polar bear enclosure, preserving what’s already there, introducing warmth and wellness, and working in alignment with the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations and the Stanley Park Intergovernmental Committee as the project evolves.
Everwild
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This proposal is an unsolicited design concept by TOAD (Tony Osborn Architecture + Design Inc.). It's meant to visualize the potential for this underused public space and, hopefully, start a conversation about its future. For more information about TOAD, check out our website or Instagram.
This project is in partnership with Basecamp Studios, who have helped us bring it to life. For more information about Basecamp Resorts, check out their website or Instagram.
Vizualizations by Miguel Orellana.