Kirkland, Washington
Kirkland Park Lane
This project demonstrates the leadership of Osborn Consulting landscape architects to transform our cities into more sustainable and equitable places to live. The primary goal of the project was to reinvent Park Lane as a place for the community to gather, reclaiming it for pedestrians regardless of ability. Park Lane’s whimsical features create a beautiful environment where people of all ages and abilities can connect over food, art, and spontaneous conversation.
Owner
City of Kirkland
Role
Landscape Architecture and Urban Design
Through an extensive public outreach campaign, a series of goals emerged for the project. Two pop-up, on-street design charrettes were held, where passersby were asked what they liked and disliked about the street, followed by coordinated one-on-one meetings with each business, as well as two open workshops with the public and city council members.
Although just a few blocks long, the Park Lane woonerf has transformed this area of downtown Kirkland into a lively, attractive street designed for lingering, community engagement, commerce, and art. Pedestrian and vehicular zones are carpeted with permeable pavers, which delineate street, parking stalls, and sidewalk zones through color variations. Ample movable furniture is placed amid colorful plantings and pedestals supporting sculptures by local artists. Catenary lights provide a festive atmosphere at night. Ecologically, bioretention planters treat and slow all stormwater runoff, and trees are supported through the combination of structural soil and Silva Cell technology. The blend of art and sustainable design has made this festival street a popular destination for all ages for early morning coffee, midday shopping, or an evening out.
