lyons_square

lyons_edge

grand rapids_michigan

[ site design ] at bishop land design role: designer

The goal of this project was to re-establish human and ecological connections between downtown grand rapids and the Grand River. The proposed design aimed to enhance the riverfront’s ecological capacity through habitat creation, and incorporation of planted terraces and a planted flood berm to increase flood mitigation. ‘The edge’ provides better access to the river for pedestrians and cyclists and accommodates a wide range of water-related activities such as pole fishing, kayaking, and coneoing. As a designer, I particpiated in design working sessions, and contributed to preparation of drawings sets and presentations. I worked closely with leadership in developing the complex cutom-designed seatings that are formally inspired by unique Grand River rock formations. These benches ranged from different sizes that integrate with the forms and levels of different parts of the site. The seating incorporated heating elements to expand use of the open space during cold winter months. Other than seats, this project included many other custum-designed pre-cast and cast-in-place concrete elements such as floodwall, ramps and pavers.