The Green at 320 S Canal
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The Green at 320 S Canal
Chicago, Illinois
This is one of Chicago’s largest privately-owned community-oriented parks in an area of Downtown with little public green space.
Located adjacent to Chicago Union Station’s historic Headhouse Building and Transit Center as well as a new 50-story office tower, this 1.5-acre space is a verdant oasis in an otherwise dense and high-traffic area of the city. This urban respite is constructed over the top of a parking garage and serves the surrounding neighborhood and adjacent office tenants. It's become a welcoming destination for the bustling nearby commuter hub.
The design is based on the principle of contrast; a decidedly organic and flexible layout as compared to the adjacent sleek office tower and surrounding skyline. The park was envisioned as a flexible central green surrounded by lush garden seating alcoves, an amphitheater, retail, and connected pathways. Part of what makes this space unique is the curated activation efforts developed in collaboration with a public space programming consultant. Activation examples include fitness/wellness in the park, a farmers market, evening movies, live music, poetry readings/open mic events, games, an outdoor library, and even “borrow-a-blanket” stations for impromptu picnics on the lawn.
