Landscape Architect : Jon Pate , ASLA
Experienced with public process , Jon Pate was nonetheless impressed by the turnout at the meetings for Symphony Park ’ s renovation . “ Participation and input was very high for more than ten public meetings because of the wide outreach ,” he notes . To make the input as rich as possible Jon and another designer ( who left the project when she moved out of state ) used lots of imagery in the presentations , explained design words , met in differently-sized subgroups , compiled written and online surveys , and always included fill-in space where people could contribute unsolicited comments and concerns . Also , he recalls , “ We always served cookies and coffee !”
The neighbors knew they wanted to enjoy the new Symphony Park on an everyday basis , of course , yet they also hoped it would serve as a gathering place for local musicians given the concentration of professional and student musicians in the area . The park was ultimately outfitted with electrical hookups for small concerts and spaces designed to feel comfortable for as many as 200 people . The Bach score engraved upon the decorative granite seatwall , while the lines of a music staff appear in multiple places , unifying elements of the hardscape and planned sculpture .
Jon notes while observing the built park , “ It feels like a reunited park . The pillowed central lawn is the inverse of what it was previously . We have opened up sight lines and used the same materials on both sides of the park . The spaces feel larger and the whole park feels larger , too . It has a real sense of identity .”
When asked about memorable moments during the public process , Jon and Marie both recalled the mutual respect that characterized the process . They agree that while attempting to solve a problem and look at opportunities , people need to have conversations , even difficult ones , and arrive at a decision together . “ That the Symphony Park community was able to discuss polarizing issues such as dog-free vs . dog-friendly spaces , and determine that they wanted a solution that would serve both dog owners and people , and that they were able to have those conversations while employing mutual respect , was very rewarding to see in action .”
Boston Society of Landscape Architects Fieldbook
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