2025
Parklet Design Competition
Photo by Andrew Keithly Photography
And the Winner is…
ESa Architects
The Cupcake Collection is the steward of a new tiny public space in Germantown. The winning design was created by a big team at ESa and the parklet was built by JE Dunn Construction with help from Boys & Girls Club students.
Park(ing) Day Inspires future change
We have long been in discussion with the team at The Cupcake Collection around the possibility of a parklet for their Germantown location. In 2020, when we did socially distanced parklets in several locations around Nashville, Smith Gee Studio and Crain Construction partnered to bring two playful pop-up parklets to 6th Ave. The new parklet reclaims public space for neighbors permanently!
Meet Mignon FrancoisMignon Francois founded The Cupcake Collection in 2008, transforming her financial struggles into a thriving business. Located in Germantown, Nashville, her bakery has become a beloved neighborhood staple, significantly contributing to the area’s revitalization by drawing attention and foot traffic. Mignon is excited about the parklet project, seeing it as a way to bring people together and enhance the vibrant spirit of her community. The parklet will not only provide a welcoming space for customers, but also symbolizes her dream of creating a positive impact in her community.
Thanks to our partners for this Design Competition!
The Brief:
Requirements:
Maximum footprint: 20’x7’
Platform level with curb
Partial or removable shade treatment that respects the view to the historic building
Family-friendly seating options where larger groups can gather, and engagement opportunities like a photo/peek-a-boo moment
Dog-friendly design choices, for example, tether hooks will be included so dog owners can enjoy the parklet hands-free
Special Requirement:
Consider how families and pups will best be able to engage with this small space!
All submissions followed the Parklet Program Manual and Specifications document.
A Parklet worthy of cupcakes and celebration
Winning Design
The Narrative:Sweet Relief is more than just an urban parklet—it is a community catalyst, a celebration of place, and a love letter to the values that define the Cupcake Collection. Drawing inspiration directly from the architecture and ethos of the building it complements, the parklet invites neighbors, passersby, and patrons alike to gather, linger, and connect. Whether sharing stories, enjoying conversation, or simply savoring a cupcake, visitors are reminded that joy is best experienced together—one sprinkle, and one sweet moment, at a time.
The modular construction system is intentionally simple, allowing the Boys & Girls Club to participate in the hands-on building process. The repeated parts make construction accessible and educational while reinforcing the idea that every individual contribution helps create something greater.
