Dot Spot

Calgary, Alberta (2025)

Dot Spot is a playful winter installation that transforms an everyday object into a distinctive piece of public architecture. Inspired by the familiar snow saucer, the project reimagines hundreds of blue sleds as an architectural enclosure, celebrating Calgary’s winter culture while creating a welcoming place to gather, connect, and take refuge from the elements.

Constructed from a reusable scaffold framework, the installation is wrapped in a textured skin of sleds arranged in varying orientations. The resulting enclosure balances openness and protection, filtering winter winds while maintaining visibility and connection to the surrounding downtown public realm. Its vibrant blue exterior creates a recognizable landmark that brings colour, playfulness, and a sense of warmth to the winter streetscape.

Designed to support both programmed activity and spontaneous everyday use, Dot Spot operates as a flexible civic gathering space. An integrated kiosk accommodates coffee service, community events, and live DJ performances, while sheltered seating provides a place for visitors to pause, socialize, and enjoy the city throughout the colder months.

Temporary by design, the installation embraces principles of reuse and circularity. Its scaffold framework can be redeployed for future projects, while the sleds are intended to return to their original purpose through a community sledding event before being donated to local organizations.

Dot Spot demonstrates how modest materials, playful thinking, and thoughtful urban interventions can transform the experience of winter in the city, turning Calgary’s challenging climate into an opportunity for connection, activity, and civic life.

Photo Credits: Josh TeBokkel, Michael Zabinski