LINEAR OPPORTUNITIES

INSPIRATION

Copley Wolff Design Group’s (CWDG) submission is based on three core tenets:

The design should reflect the needs and desires of the community it will inhabit. CWDG shares Lyme Properties’ commitment to the importance of early and continued community involvement in the design process. Lebanon is a special place which deserves to be nurtured and protected as it continues to evolve. We recognize that this project is a major component of that shared future. Our proposal draws on the matrix of programmatic elements compiled by Lyme Properties to prioritize the needs of a community. Future iterations will refl ect a continued open dialogue within Lebanon.

Responsible development improves quality of life while minimizing ecological impacts. Impending development brings major changes to the natural systems that shape an ecology. A successful master plan will identify those systems, protect irreplaceable resources, and strategically integrate new construction. Our plan preserves large portions of the existing canopy vegetation and develops a system of new planting which weaves into the built environment. Stormwater treatment and the protection of the Connecticut River Watershed will be factored into any plan from step one. Th e plan also recognizes that preservation is not accomplished through isolation. Providing access to nature builds relationships which can benefi t both man and the environment.

Surprise. Th ere’s a lot of “boring” out there. RiverPark has the opportunity to do something more; to create places that make you smile; places that allow you to think a little diff erently; places to relax; places to connect. Real places that make Lebanon an even better place to live.

Th e design draws on contemporary and historical landscape precedents to develop a language that unites the waterfront and future development sites. Analysis centered on projects using traditional materials (wood, concrete, metal, planting) in forward thinking and unexpected ways. Th is balance between tradition and imagination refl ects RiverPark’s mission while building a environment that excites and inspires.

Aerial View

CONCEPT Th e concept for the design was drawn from the unexpected parallel lines of existing red cedars; a legacy of the site’s history of managed forestry. Th e juxtaposition of a natural feature in a highly controlled, architectural arrangement achieves a sense of wonderment within the larger context of the site. Th e design builds on this feature by establishing connected, strong, linear paths and vantage points which contrast with the organic curves of the river, ridges, and native landscape.

SITE CONCEPT Linear landscape “lines” form a rhythm across the site. Major program elements occur where pedestrian circulation crosses these landscape “lines”.

PLANTING Preservation of the existing woodlands and red cedar stand is a major priority. Additional native planting structures the site to form new planted geometries.

STORMWATER Systems of permeable paving, raingardens, and infi ltration basins are organized to protect the Connecticut Mainstem-Ompompanoosuc River to White River watershed and establish a high performing landscape.

Th e existing line of red cedars, an inspiration for the design, is underplanted with dafodil bulbs to create a

vibrant and unexpected yearly display.

CANOE LAUNCH/BOATHOUSE

OVERLOOK

BEACH/PICNIC GROVE

POP-UP PARK

RIVERWALK/WATERFRONT TRAIL

MATERIALITY

VISION Th e design provides an integrated circulation system which connects the upper and lower portions of the site. Major elements include a canoe/kayak rental facility and launch; riverwalk which would connect to the regional network; dramatic overlook promenade; central plaza; and an entry fountain which functions as a water fi ltration system.

CONTEXT