Public Arts and Open Space Steering Committee


Why was it formed?

The Public Arts and Open Space (PAOS) steering committee was formed to help create the most-dynamic, pedestrian-friendly environment possible at the proposed Kirkland Parkplace redevelopment. Art and public common areas are critical elements of our design plan because they establish a highly interactive, lifestyle-based experience for everyone to enjoy. They also provide vital connections to areas that surround the project. We believe all facets of the project’s proposed redevelopment should be collaborative in order to embrace a wide range of ideas from stakeholders in the Kirkland community. This input is important in our pursuit of creating what is right for the property, and moreover, enhances the overall Kirkland “experience.” The formation of the PAOS steering committee is another step we’re taking to accomplishing this goal.

What’s the mission?

The mission of the PAOS steering committee is to provide a collaborative, community-based forum where ideas can be freely exchanged on the design and creation of Kirkland Parkplace’s “public realm.” This includes elements such as green space, public art installations, common area materials, landscaping, dynamic water features, pedestrian walkways and drive lanes along with lighting, furniture, paving and other site elements that will enhance the pedestrian experience.

Who serves on the committee?

The PAOS steering committee is comprised of a diverse group of local stakeholders who are passionate about art and Kirkland’s strong sense of history and heritage. These individuals, who range from local gallery owners and arts donors to non-profit leaders and arts enthusiasts, are each committed to enhancing the vitality of Kirkland and improving the overall experience for residents, workers and visitors to this wonderful city.

Meeting Information

The PAOS committee will meet monthly to discuss the various types of art and open space elements that should be considered to enhance Kirkland Parkplace’s overall project design. Following each PAOS meeting, Touchstone will post minutes and summaries here on the Kirkland Parkplace website.

To request information regarding the PAOS Steering Committee please email requests to: info@envisionkirklandparkplace.com.

Meeting Reports / History

PAOS Meeting - May 8, 2008
PAOS hired Cath Brunner of 4Culture as a special project-arts consultant for the proposed redevelopment of the Kirkland Parkplace project. Cath is working with the project-redevelopment team and the PAOS committee on developing a framework for types of art that could be included in the site. Cath’s role on the project is being funded by Touchstone Corp.

PAOS Meeting - Feb. 7, 2008
Members of the Kirkland Parkplace Public Arts and Open Space (PAOS) steering committee met on Feb. 7 to exchange ideas on the design and creation of the proposed redevelopment project's "public realm." This includes elements such as green space, public art installations, common area materials, landscaping, pedestrian walkways, drive lanes, and more.

The first part of the meeting consisted of a presentation by Walt Niehoff, project architect with LMN Architects, and Kris Snider, a landscape architect from Hewitt, on what is currently envisioned for Kirkland Parkplace's public realm.

Walt and Kris discussed the role of open space at Kirkland Parkplace - how roads, buildings, sidewalks and other elements work in concert with the green space — and how similar projects around the world are able to leverage these opportunities for unique visitor experiences. They presented rough street-level drawings of how Kirkland Parkplace's open space might look and feel to the shopper, office worker or casual passer-by.

Douglas Howe of Touchstone Corporation then led an open-forum discussion with committee members on a number of topics, including:

  • How other mixed-use projects incorporate public art and open space into their designs in places like San Diego, Venice, Rome and the Pacific Northwest
  • The potential for local artists to be commissioned to create art for the project
  • The possibility of rotating art pieces to ensure that the landscape is continuously vibrant, fresh and exciting
  • The use of light and water as artistic elements to bring life and vibrancy to the project
  • How landscaping can be designed in an emotional and artistic way
  • The type of art and / or landscaping that can be created at the corner of 6th & Central — the "Gateway" to the project and the city
  • The definition of Kirkland’s artistic genre and how to intentionally incorporate that into the project

The next meeting is scheduled for Thurs., Mar. 13, during which the committee will further explore ideas on the design and creation of Kirkland Parkplace's public realm. As always, your input is desired by the Kirkland Parkplace team. Please feel free to send comments and questions to info@envisionkirklandparkplace.com.

Gallery

Photos of various mixed-use projects around the world depicting green space, public art installations, common area materials, landscaping, pedestrian walkways, drive lanes, etc.