Memphis, Tennessee
Overton is Memphis' most prominent park, designed by George E. Kessler in 1901. Ritchie Smith Associates (RSA) prepared the first master plan since that date for the 342-acre historic park that includes Brooks Museum of Art, Memphis College of Art, and the Memphis Zoo, as well as a 175-acre, old-growth forest and a nine-hole golf course. The plan recommended design improvements as well as management prescriptions to improve the use, condition, and image of the park. RSA conducted extensive public meetings in which plan alternatives were reviewed and a consensus of support was elicited from diverse constituent groups. The Memphis Park Commission and the Memphis City Council adopted the plan and subsequently, RSA was retained by the city to design four phases of park improvements.
Award: American Society of Landscape Architects, Tennessee Chapter - Merit Award