Overton Park Improvements, Phases I-IV

Memphis, Tennessee

Ritchie Smith Associates (RSA) designed a series of park improvements to address contemporary needs in Memphis' most historic park. All new elements were sensitively integrated with the character of the 342-acre park and its old-growth forest. In Phase I, a 1.4-mile jogging trail and park-wide signage system were added. Phase II included a new playground, new picnic area, and a refurbished pavilion. In Phase III, the main park entrance was enhanced and a closed road was transformed into a central gathering space. Phase IV included renovations of an existing picnic area and redesign of the site surrounding a historic 1906 pavilion. The phased functional and aesthetic improvements followed the Overton Park Master Plan prepared by RSA.

Awards: American Society of Landscape Architects, Tennessee Chapter - Three Merit Awards