KSA’s intent was to design a neighborhood park to meet the growing desire for more open and public gathering spaces in the City of West Hollywood. The park is a passive, recreational haven amid the bustle of the City’s streets.
The park’s design is based upon the idea of ‘greening’ the City. Using the theme of foliage shapes, pathways and planting areas are designed in a way to mimic nature’s shapes of fallen leaves. Plantings throughout the park reflects the colors of fall whilst enhancing the design of the adjacent condominium building. Water conservancy is a high priority and the drought tolerant plant selections reflect this.
Following the desire for a greener environment; walkways, benches and site furnishings were designed with sustainability in mind, using wood composites and similar materials.
A Gateway to announce the entrance to the park is faced with vine clad green-screen and is softly illuminated at night giving the park both a presence on the street and a feeling of safety.
The Shade Structure is constructed from irregular shaped panels with cutouts of leaves to provide a forest floor reflection on the plane beneath. There is space for people to relax, meet, and enjoy the surroundings of the intimate space.
The Formosa Pocket Park, designed by Katherine Spitz Associates, Inc.(KSA) is situated on Formosa Avenue, just north of Santa Monica Boulevard in the City of West Hollywood, California. It is a 4,600 square foot universally accessible park constructed over subterranean parking that serves an adjacent 11-unit condominium project designed by renowned architect Lorcan O’Herlihy.
Landscape Architects: Katherine Spitz Associates, Inc.(KSA)
Photographers: Lawrence Anderson & Steve Lacap
