Meet Vivo: Calgary's year-round playground

Funding provided through the Community Culture and Recreation Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program

In the heart of North Central Calgary, a bold transformation brings people together in new and inspiring ways. The Vivo Expansion Project has reimagined what a community hub can be, blending cutting-edge design with a deep commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and wellness. As one of the region's fastest-growing areas, North Central Calgary needed a space that could adapt to its diverse and evolving population – a space that not only meets the community's needs but also inspires healthier and more connected lives.

State-of-the-art facilities for all

The expanded facility includes outdoor gathering spaces designed to unite people together even during Calgary's colder months, a climbing wall catering to climbers of all ages and abilities, and aquatic upgrades featuring a six-lane, fully accessible 25-metre pool and an innovative indoor lakeside experience. Fitness centre enhancements offer boutique-style studios for group cycling (with accessible bikes), yoga, and personal or group training sessions. Community spaces include flexible multipurpose rooms, a 19,500-square-foot (1,812-square-metre) indoor park perfect for spontaneous play and year-round activities, and a research and innovation centre dedicated to advancing knowledge and improving community wellness. These spaces promote social connections, physical activity, and a deep connection to nature, fostering a healthier, more vibrant community.

Meeting a growing community's needs

North Central Calgary's rapid population growth brought with it a diverse set of needs, and the Vivo Expansion Project reflects this dynamic shift by offering inclusive spaces for families, older adults, and newcomers alike. At its core, the project embodies a commitment to creating a welcoming environment, shaped by years of community input and collaboration.

Community-centered design

At the heart of Vivo's expansion is a commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. Cynthia Watson, Vivo's Chief Evolution Officer, emphasized the importance of community collaboration in shaping the project:

“Vivo's expansion is about more than a larger physical space — it is the dreams and desires of the community come to life. For years we worked closely with and listened to the community to better understand what healthier generations means to them. We considered who is NOT coming to Vivo and how we could become a space that is welcoming and inclusive for all. The new spaces represent those learnings and offer the community the space that they have asked for to continue on their wellness journey.”

Innovation in biophilic design

One of the most remarkable aspects of the expansion is its embrace of biophilic design — a concept that fosters a deep connection to nature within built environments. In partnership with the Alberta Real Estate Foundation, Vivo initiated research to explore how biophilic design enhances health and wellness. Early findings reveal significant benefits, including reduced stress, improved mood, and heightened creativity. The community has warmly embraced these thoughtful designs, with visitors praising the climate-controlled spaces that offer opportunities for year-round recreation, meaningful social interactions, and holistic wellness.

A model for the future

The Vivo Expansion Project is a testament to the power of community-driven development, providing residents with a space to stay active, build connections, and thrive – no matter the season.

Quick facts

• Welcoming about 100,000 visitors per month, the facility's $62 million redesign addresses the rapid population growth and unique cultural makeup of North Central Calgary, creating an inclusive space for health, connection, and community.
• Incorporating nature into indoor spaces enhances cognitive function, with studies proving that multiple biophilic design patterns significantly boost memory, focus, and problem-solving abilities.
• The Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program provides long-term funding, including $33 billion in support, for projects like Vivo's expansion that enhance community infrastructure and ensure reliable services for Canadians.

For more information

• Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program
• Vivo
• Biophilic Design for Healthy Environments - Vivo