The design develops the site as a passive, commemorative space that makes a statement about the company’s heritage and legacy. Native granite boulders gradually emerge from the earth to form five walls leading to the bluff above the river. They symbolize the bond between chemistry and humanity. A pathway along the top of the bluff reveals five walls one at a time. Secondary paths frame diamond-shaped spaces to create an “Idea Garden” where exhibits, events and displays can take place. Rows of fruit trees reflect Dow’s personal passion for orchards and horticulture, and plantings of pines recall the heritage of Midland and times when Dow would “walk through the pines” to solve problems and contemplate ideas.
Disciplines
- Planning / Urban Design
- Site Design
Type(s)
- Parks / Recreation
Services
- Blue / green infrastructure
- Construction Contract Administration
- Cost Estimating
- Graphic Design
- Master Planning
- Site Design
- Stormwater Management
Client
- MIDLAND CENTER FOR THE ARTS
LOCATION
- MIDLAND, MI
AWARDS
- MICHIGAN CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS – HONOR AWARD, 2012
- NATIONAL ORGANIZATION OF MINORITY ARCHITECTS – HONOR AWARD, 2013
- LOUISIANA CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS – HONOR AWARD, 2013