Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Community Center

Memphis, Tennessee

Ritchie Smith Associates (RSA) provided site and landscape design for the 15-acre community center developed to provide a place for all residents to enjoy wellness and enrichment activities. The center was funded in part by the Kroc estate with a match from the local Salvation Army. The project was designed for sustainability in construction and operation and to earn LEED silver-level certification.

The design transformed a derelict inner-city property once dominated by asphalt parking lots and created an appealing facility with a significant increase in vegetated open space. For on-site stormwater management and efficient water use, RSA designed special site details including infiltration islands in parking areas, permeable vehicular and pedestrian paving, rainwater reuse with cistern storage, and drip irrigation. The planting plan palette is comprised of native and low-water-demand plants. All site furnishings have recycled content. Among the distinct landscape spaces designed as part of the project are indoor and outdoor courtyards and a playground.

Award: American Society of Landscape Architects, Tennessee Chapter - Honor Award