A model urban park design for cultural expression

Abstract

This thesis investigates the redevelopment of a culturally sensitive urban park design for the South Market Street Park in Asheville, North Carolina. The thesis supports evidence that creating an urban park space for cultural expression can generate cultural awareness, economic development and aid in reestablishing a cultural community. This thesis establishes a set of design criteria that if used properly will ensure a successful culturally expressive design. The redevelopment will also help to eradicate a blighted physical space and replace illicit behavioral conditions with a culturally sensitive redesigned space that will ultimately rejuvenate a positive reputation of a cultural neighborhood. A landscape design was completed which utilized design elements, such as a symbolic fountain, tribute wall-panels, a timeline inscribed in a seatwall and a section of railroad track to symbolize and commemorate the numerous contributions African-Americans made in the development of Asheville and their neighborhood, "The Block".