CITYVISIONS
Follow-Up
on Issues Featured on CityVisions
Seab Tuck of Tuck-Hinton Architects discusses the
Metro Public Square
In
2003, the City of Nashville undertook a multi-million dollar renovation
to its Metro Courthouse complex including a 5 level subterranean parking
garage and “rooftop” public plaza. The total downtown site,
consisting of approximately 7.5 acres, includes a 2.25-acre state-of-the-art
intensive greenroof over the parking structure. A cornerstone of the
design team’s concept was the establishment of a truly civic open
space that embodies the term “Public Square,” providing unfettered
access to all citizens to this civic hub from which a new pedestrian
connectivity to the surrounding city could be realized. This new park
not only complements the renovated 1930’s art-deco styled courthouse
architecture, but accentuates its grandeur from all perspectives using
rich, timeless materials that are also authentic within its contemporary
design interpretation.
This in every way is “context sensitive” design. Predominant
civic views and axes literally shape the design’s expression. At
a more philosophical level, there is a subtle but important message sent
by the broad civic lawn that stretches in front of the Davidson County
Courthouse and Civic Building. From whatever point of entry, citizens
reach the “level civic lawn” to stand equal in the sight
of our elected government and court system. Sensitivity to the stewardship
of the environment, including water resources, is an integral part of
the design.
The project re-incorporates many historically significant components
from the original site. Some of those elements include reuse of granite
units (wall caps, veneer, and steps), historical war commemorative monuments,
and historical veteran plaques. All installed granite walls, curbs,
steps, etc. in closest proximity to the Courthouse terrace are constructed
with the original granite.
The Nashville Public Square design re-invents what once was a polluting
surface parking lot, and with the resolve of its community leaders, shapes
a civic gathering space of dignity and circumstance. It recalls and interprets
the historic stories of this location. It accommodates all citizens,
offering a barrier-free entry.
Why Is the Metro Public Square Good for Nashville?
- The Metro Public Square filtrates and uses rainwater to irrigate the property – which is good for the city’s wallet.
- The Metro Public Square limits the use of chemical herbicides and pesticides – which is good for the environment.
- The Metro Public Square is a beautiful, safe, and health event venue – which is good for the economy.
- The Metro Public Square commemorates significant events in Nashville’s history and memorializes famous Nashvillians – which is good for society.
- The Metro Public Square is a showpiece for the city and for the ages – which is good for Middle Tennessee.
- The Metro Public Square is a downtown park and open space – which is good for you.
- The Metro Public Square respects Nashville’s built and natural environments and incorporates public art, which are two of the Ten Principles of The Plan of Nashville. That’s why the Nashville Civic Design Center applauds the Metro Public Square.
