Brush Square Park Design Evolution 2008 2009 Presented

Brush Square Park Design Evolution 2008 -2009 Presented by Sharon Miller - Strategist & Sam Schonzeit - Architect/Designer

Project Objectives To consider a strategic evolution of the design and use of Brush Square Park To understand the current usage and role of the park To understand the future needs and visions of stakeholders To develop a conceptual focus that reflects stakeholder input To present a design recommendation based on that focus

Project Approach One-on-one interviews were conducted with the following stakeholders: Austin Parks Foundation PARD Maintenance Austin Parks Foundation Austin Convention Center Hilton Hotel Marriott Hotel O’henry Museum PARD Cultural Programming Dept Austin Parks Programming Consultant Fire Station #1 and Museum Residents of 555 Lofts, The Railyard and Avenue Lofts Capital Metro Community Development Art in Public Places.

Research Summary What is unique about Austin? - It appreciates creativity and independence and has an interest in the quirky and weird - It’s has a friendly, playful charm that’s welcoming and open - It’s people love the outdoors and social gatherings - It’s a casual, progressive city

Research Summary What is unique about Austin Parks and green space? - There is a naturalness to Austin’s parks, they maintain an organic relationship to nature, providing a casual environment in which to play and decompress - They are for everyone; a diverse range of people and dogs

Research Summary What is unique about the dynamics of the neighborhood? R - It has a diverse group of neighbors and visitors (Residents, Historic Museums, a Fire Station, Hotels, The Convention Center, Lance Armstrong Bikeway and a new Commuter Rail Stop) - Its relatively new so the dynamics are evolving but it already has a collaborative, neighborly feel

Research Summary What we want for Brush Square Park

Research Summary What we don’t want for Brush Square Park

What is the main focus for Brush Square Park? - All agreed they wanted a park that connected them to nature. A place of beauty, color and fragrance that can help restore a sense of balance - A relief from the hardness of concrete, steel and glass; not over-landscaped or pretentious - A place to meet or be entertained; either by a performer or just by watching people

Research Summary Brush Square Park Programming

Research Summary Programming - Stakeholders were interested in more intimate and cultural types of programming for the park; not an extension of 6 th street - Many were interested in an educational element to the programming or something that facilitates socializing with neighbors or visitors - small, acoustic musical entertainment - plays or theater performances - poetry slam/readings - movies in the park - short-term traveling art exhibits - social events or lessons (food, wine, art) - activities for kids

Brush Square Park Design Focus A nature tonic for city people and a culture club for neighbors and visitors

Brush Square Park Practical Considerations - Safety and security - Integrating museum row - Fire Station parking lot reduction (phased design approach) - Responding to additional commuter rail traffic and buses - Responding to the lance armstrong bikeway - Awareness of ground level as well as aerial vantage points - Integration of sustainable practices - Awareness of dog use for residents - Protection of current trees in the park - Awareness of the other downtown parks

Brush Square Park Design Recommendations

designer: sam. schonzeit@gmail. com 212 300 6183 strategist: sharon@thefirestudio. com 512 477 2561

phasing phase 1 phase 2 phase 3 phase 4 existing parking lot designer: sam. schonzeit@gmail. com 212 300 6183 strategist: sharon@thefirestudio. com 512 477 2561

For more information please contact: strategist: sharon@thefirestudio. com 512 477 2561 designer: sam. schonzeit@gmail. com 212 300 6183