Studio Gang unveil community-focused concept for Tom Lee Park
by Andrew Manns | 05 Feb 2019
American architecture firm Studio Gang have revealed the first set of renderings of their vision to regenerate the historic Tom Lee Park in Memphis, Tennessee.
Part of what has been described as a "holistic redevelopment" of the Memphis riverfront, the revitalised public space, which Studio Gang is redesigning in collaboration with SCAPE Landscape Architecture, will take design cues from various riverside structures, machines, and transport vessels – such as docks, grain elevators, and barges.
Extending six miles along the Mississippi River, the park will also comprise four recreational areas: The Gateway, a concourse with a public plaza and links to downtown Memphis; The Pool, an expansive green area for festivals, picnics, and performances; The Riffle, a central zone with multiple sports facilities; and The Tailout, a nature-focused area with wildlife viewing stations and an outdoor classroom.
Leisure amenities, which will be located throughout the property, will include a splash fountain, multi-use sports courts, and a mile-long fitness loop with exercise equipment.
Commenting on the project, Jeanne Gang, founder and principal at Studio Gang, said: "Our design builds upon two years of work alongside Memphians, which began with the Riverfront Concept, our proposal for the Riverfront as a whole, and is inspired by the extraordinary work that today’s Memphians are doing for their community."
She added: "The new Tom Lee Park will be a civic space for everyone in Memphis to enjoy. We've designed the architecture to floating the landscape like vessels on the river, creating a park that uniquely reflects the changing nature of the Mississippi River and the city along its banks."
Fundraising for the estimated US$33m (£25m, €29m) park was led by the Memphis River Parks Partnership, a local non-profit.
Construction is anticipated to begin this June and wrap by 2020.
Studio Gang Memphis riverfront Tom Lee Park
Construction is anticipated to begin this June and wrap by 2020. Credit: Courtesy of Studio Gang
Details for the project were revealed at the opening of the Tom Lee Engagement Center on 2 February,. Credit: Courtesy of Studio Gang
American architecture firm Studio Gang have revealed the first set of renderings of their vision to regenerate the historic Tom Lee Park in Memphis, Tennessee. Part of what has been described as a "holistic redevelopment" of the Memphis riverfront, the revitalised public space, which Studio Gang is redesigning in collaboration with SCAPE Landscape Architecture, will take design cues from various riverside structures, machines, and transport vessels – such as docks,
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