Symphony Woods Master Plan

Symphony Woods was largely a missed opportunity for the community. While designated as a key green space in the original James Rouse plan for Columbia, Maryland, the wooded area had since been seldom used by the general public as a public park, largely because it lacks clear access points, pathways, or features useful for local residents. The wooded environment had therefore been regarded as just a buffer to the large outdoor performance venue at its center. Inner Arbor Trust was created to transform Symphony Woods into a vibrant, programmed “arts park” that brings new life to Columbia's center. The master planning effort was conducted in collaboration with stakeholders and community members to create a collection of memorable experiences. Recognizing the beautiful existing environment, the design approach seeks to integrate unique and playful features that compliment their natural surroundings. While largely preserving the character of the park, these elements provide ways to engage the arts while also creating spaces to gather. Features such as a covered outdoor gallery and outdoor stages invite visitors to engage in arts and culture. Meanwhile, an elevated playground amongst the trees and sculptural park structures invite informal engagement in playful environments. Weaving in a system of access points and gateways opens up the park to be explored and utilized. Overall the gentle interventions transform the park to be a desirable asset to the community, one that is useful for a range of activities such as large festivals or small intimate gatherings.

Client: Inner Arbor Trust

Davin’s Role: Design Principal

Urban Designer: Living Design Lab

Landscape Architect: Unknown Studio