Parking Lots to Parks
SAM VALENTINE , ASSOCIATE ASLA SIG SIGURDSEN
All Photos | Richard Burck Associates
Ten years ago , surface parking lots dominated the quarter-mile stretch along Northern Avenue in South Boston . Now rebranded as the South Boston Waterfront , this area has seen tremendous development in the last decade , as one of Boston ’ s last undeveloped stretches of waterfront is transformed into a vibrant mixed-use district . To date , Richard Burck Associates ( RBA ) has completed one park ( Fan Pier Public Green ) and the first phase of a second ( Fan Pier Park ), their connecting streetscapes , two roof terraces , and a key segment of the well-used Boston Harborwalk .
Place-Making
The Public Green features a large , democratic open lawn that provides flexible space for performance , gathering , recreation , and peoplewatching . An adjoining wood deck area offers seating and shelter from the summer sun . Underlying the design of these waterfront spaces is a careful understanding of local viewsheds and sight lines . RBA ’ s goal in the design of both parks was engaging user experience with the waterfront . As a new main public corridor
50 BSLA