BRIGHTLEAF HISTORIC REVITALIZATION

Solution

Reinvigorating an urban district with an integrated design team

Brightleaf Square, steeped in history, has emerged as a cherished landmark in Downtown Durham, NC. Once storing the prized bright leaf tobacco that fueled Durham's turn-of-the-century economy, these warehouses evolved into a public square. Now, the dynamic landscape of Durham has prompted a new role for this iconic space.

Goals

1. Refresh and reinvigorate the courtyard with sustainability at the forefront

2. Reclaim the courtyard’s presence as a historic landmark

3. Draw pedestrians into the space with a central walkway and comfortable seating areas

4. Activate retail spaces by blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor

AT THE URGING OF LITTLE'S LANDSCAPE TEAM, WE CREATED A TWO-TIERED STREET EDGE, WHICH WAS A MUCH BETTER SOLUTION THAN HAVING A RETAINING WALL AT THE EDGE OF THE PUBLIC WALKWAY. IT MADE THE PROJECT MUCH MORE APPROACHABLE.

What began as an effort to address accessibility and pedestrian challenges evolved into a grander vision to reimagine the area as the vibrant heart of a larger Brightleaf district. This expansion aimed to connect, revitalize, and redefine the district's identity while keeping sustainability top of mind.

Primarily led by Little’s landscape and brand experience teams, the design reused existing materials, added more resilient plants, incorporated strategies to reduce the carbon footprint and created a new brand identity, supported by new wayfinding and placemaking signage.

Results

30 % INCREASE IN NEW LEASES

By Courtney Downey