Event Activation & Interactive Media
Northcrest Developments enlisted Cicada Design for exhibit design and content creation to showcase their vision for the mixed-use communities of YZD, located on the former Downsview Airport lands. As design lead, art director, and project manager, I oversaw the exhibits from concept to installation. These exhibits are part of Northcrest’s new Experience Centre and offices, housed in a repurposed hangar on-site. With sweeping views of the future development area and the massive hangar structures, the centre provides an inspiring glimpse into the project’s potential.
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History Wall
Evolution of the Lands
Evolution of the Lands
In collaboration with Northcrest, I curated historical artifacts and photographs within custom displays to create an engaging introduction for visitors to the Experience Centre. The lobby entrance features artwork by Anishinaabe artist Cathie Jamieson, honouring the Indigenous community and the local land, fostering a deep connection to both the environment and community.
A striking double-height wall at the feature staircase showcases the site’s visual history, spanning from its earliest days to the present. This display includes images and artifacts from various archives, illuminated pieces, and a large video wall—all highlighting the site’s rich cultural and historical character. Additionally, an elevator graphic extends this experience, featuring excerpts from the same content to further engage visitors.
history wall from feature stair
History Wall from Ground Level
Aviation Artifacts
Looking Down Feature Stair
Historic Photography as Part of the Exhibit
Media Wall
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Framework Model
Combining Digital and Physical
Combining Digital and Physical
The Framework model is a 1:1000 physical representation of the entire YZD lands, enhanced by animated visual content. It can automatically cycle through various visual display modes or be controlled by a presenter to highlight select graphic modes. The design leverages a canted angle for the 3D-printed plan, improving visibility of the under-lit model, while a monitor array above conveys messaging and rich visuals that correspond with key components of the plan. A large vinyl graphic wraps the backing wall, providing guests with an overview of the plan’s principal features.
framework model dynamically display components of the plan
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Alternate map modes on model screen
screen-mounted master plan presentation model
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touchscreen exhibit integration
Interactive Screens
Community Touchpoints
Community Touchpoints
Interactive screens play a key role in several exhibits, enabling self-guided exploration of the YZD and Hangar District communities while allowing for easy media updates. I led the custom content design of touchscreen displays with locally-hosted websites, offering deeper insights into the planning and key themes of these communities, as well as an iPad virtual tour of the Hangar District provides 360° views of the current surroundings and future public spaces. Additionally, a mobile AR Instagram filter allows visitors to interact with and share a 3D rendering of The Taxiway Street.
Touchscreens Integrated Displays
Touchscreen Application Design
iPad 360 Experience
