K A N A W H A P L A Z A

 

QUICK NOTES

  • DESIGNED BY: Robert Zion, Zion and Breen Associates

  • LOCATION: Richmond, VA

  • TYPE: Urban Plaza

  • YEAR DESIGNED: 1972

  • NOTABLE DESIGN ELEMENTS: Geometric and complex concrete waterfall

long story short

Located in downtown Richmond, Kanawha Plaza sits above an expressway on a site that was historically cleared for urban renewal. The three-acre space is primarily comprised of a structured waterfall, open lawn, and wandering paths. Today, the park accommodates large public events and has shady spaces for small groups. The most significant element of the site is undoubtedly its large complex geometric concrete waterfall.

The experience of the plaza can drastically vary based on whether or not the waterfall is on/off.

once upon a time

Acting as a gateway to the James River, the park initially came about in 1970, when the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond realized that the Downtown Expressway would pass by their main entrance, not only disconnecting them from the remainder of the City, but also taking away a significant portion of the James River and Kanawha Canal. Zion and Breen Associates were hired as the landscape architects to solve the problem in a creative manner.

One of the significant aspects of this place is its play of hardscape and landscape. The contradiction, yet complementary meeting of concrete and grasses is evident throughout the space as constant reminder of man-made geometry meeting nature . The relatively large heptagonal waterfall is significant not only in its design form, but also function. Considering that the plaza is an island surrounded by major roads as well as overlooking the Expressway, the location and design of the element creates a unique barrier between people and the nearby traffic. The sound of the falling water becomes a distraction from the drivers, while its presentation captures the eye, creating an urban oasis in the midst of chaos.

The planting selection throughout the plaza brings about great deal of softness and natural flow to a rather geometric and man-made structure. Whether around the waterfall or along the pathways, the collection of the lily turf, mixture of ornamental grasses, and larger shrubs, including hydrangea, add a powerful element of nature to this otherwise isolated space.

Large steps alongside the waterfall not only act as barrier in case of heavy rain, but also add to the visual interest in terms of contrast to the main element.

Aerial image of the renovated Kanawha Plaza as it sits above the Downtown Expressway, surrounded by major streets, neighboring the Federal Reserve Bank.

Image C/O: Bill Dickinson via YouTube (link in Sources)

Sources:

  • https://www.styleweekly.com/richmond/architecture-review-kanawha-plaza-reopens-with-a-welcomed-cleaning-and-makeover/Content?oid=2374102

  • https://tclf.org/landscapes/kanawha-plaza

  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xbSYmOol00s

    ** All photos by author unless otherwise noted.