Mississauga’s Carmen Corbasson Community Centre Wins Provincial Design Excellence Award
Renovated recreation facility recognized by Ontario architects for sustainable design and community impact
MISSISSAUGA — The City of Mississauga’s newly redeveloped Carmen Corbasson Community Centre has received provincial recognition for architectural excellence.
The facility has been named a recipient of the 2026 Ontario Association of Architects Design Excellence Award, an honour recognizing projects across Ontario that demonstrate outstanding design and meaningful community impact.
City officials say the recognition highlights Mississauga’s continued investment in modern, sustainable and community-focused public infrastructure.
Award recognizes architecture and community integration
Carmen Corbasson Community Centre reopened in 2025 following a major redevelopment project led by Toronto-based Diamond Schmitt Architects and Aquicon Construction.
The Ontario Association of Architects recognized the facility for:
- Sustainable design features
- Community-focused programming spaces
- Architectural integration with the surrounding natural environment
- Accessibility and improved circulation design
The project was delivered through collaboration between several City departments, including:
- Facilities and Property Management
- Recreation and Culture
- Parks, Forestry and Environment
Designed as a “pavilion in the forest”
According to the City, the redesigned facility was envisioned as a “pavilion in the forest,” using transparency and natural light to connect indoor recreation spaces with the surrounding woodland environment.
The redevelopment added approximately 45,000 square feet of new space, including:
- A swimming pool
- Fitness centre
- Aerobics studio
The expansion integrates with the existing arena and gymnasium complex while modernizing accessibility and internal circulation throughout the building.
City officials say the project also uses mass timber construction and sustainable design strategies to improve environmental performance and create welcoming public gathering spaces.
Provincial recognition for public architecture
The Ontario Association of Architects Design Excellence Awards recognize projects that positively shape communities and support meaningful public use.
In 2026, the organization selected 20 finalists from across Ontario representing:
- Community centres
- Public spaces
- Housing developments
- Academic buildings
- Cultural facilities
Raj Sheth, Mississauga’s Commissioner of Community Services, described the award as a significant achievement for the City and project teams.
“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,” Sheth said in a statement.
Anna Cascioli, Director of Facilities and Property Management, said collaboration between City staff and project partners helped balance design quality, sustainability and public functionality.
Continued investment in recreation infrastructure
The award arrives as Mississauga continues investing in recreation and public infrastructure projects across the city.
Municipal officials say facilities like Carmen Corbasson Community Centre are intended to serve as long-term community hubs supporting recreation, wellness and environmental sustainability for residents.
The recognition also places Mississauga among several Ontario municipalities being acknowledged for innovative public architecture and community-oriented design.
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