Remember that unsightly garage? That’s where Norman B. Leventhal Park now stands a testament to innovative urban planning. This 1.7-acre park sits atop a 1400-space underground parking garage. It is in the heart of Boston’s Financial District.
Norman B. Leventhal Park wasn’t always a green oasis. Before its creation, there was just an unappealing parking garage. Many considered it a blight on the downtown area. Landscape Architecture Magazine even called it a “hideous structure”.
But Norman B. Leventhal, a local developer, had a vision. He wanted to transform this eyesore into something beautiful. He gathered some of Boston’s brightest business minds. Together, they devised a plan to finance a park supported by an underground parking facility. In 1983, they formed “Friends of Post Office Square, Inc.”
The Friends group faced a challenge. They needed to acquire the site before the existing lease expired. Simultaneously, they began raising private funds. These funds would cover the design and construction of both the garage and the Norman B. Leventhal Park. By 1987, they had achieved both goals.
The Friends visited other cities to study successful park designs. They worked with urban designers to define the park’s purpose. This included identifying users and uses. It also spelled out design objectives and requirements. They even held a national competition to select a designer for Norman B. Leventhal Park.
The winning design sought to create a green space. This space would be rich in detail and visually appealing. It would also acknowledge the area’s architectural heritage. The design would offer relief from the surrounding urban environment. The park was designed as a garden for all seasons. Its most prominent feature is an open lawn. Large deciduous trees surround it.
Clear sight lines into Norman B. Leventhal Park were crucial. Low walls serve as path edges and seating. This allows passersby to enjoy the park. The park features plazas at each end. The North Plaza has a walk-through fountain sculpture. The South Plaza contains garden pavilions. These pavilions house a café and access to the underground garage.
Norman B. Leventhal Park has many significant aspects. It was an early successful “intensive green roof” project. It boosted real estate values in the area. It shows the power of a well-considered park program.
Accolades for Norman B. Leventhal Park began during construction. It received the Harleston Parker Award. This award is for Boston’s “most beautiful” new building. It also received an ASLA Centennial Medal. Forbes magazine listed it as one of America’s Best Urban Parks.
Pamela Messenger said that cities need iconic places. Norman B. Leventhal Park is one such place. It stands as an example of design that lasts. It transformed an eyesore into a cherished urban oasis. The park offers a welcoming space for relaxation and community.