Redesign/refurbishment of South Santa Monica State Beach and Palisades Park. Included: restoration of historic pergola, design of five restrooms, seatwalls, paths, Santa Monica “Beacon Overlook”, landscaped and engineered restoration of Palisades, design of exercise/exhibition area and chess court. The challenge was to unite two vastly different sites, each with different economic and environmental conditions. Our design concept, “living theater” evolved from the natural drama of the Palisades to the human performance of South Beach. Every aspect was conceived from two perspectives, a partnership with the environment and the user. Over a five-year period the project was a total collaboration with city agencies, various interest groups and the community.

Awards:

Awarded “One of Ten Best Public Spaces in America,” Planning Association of America

National ASLA Design Honor Award.

ASLA Merit Award, San Diego, CA.

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Collaboration: Wallace, Roberts & Todd; Maris Peika; Morris | Sato Architects.

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Commission:  City of Santa Monica & Cultural Affairs Division.

Photography: Tim Street-Porter