PROJECTS

BIO

Ville Platte Town Square                          Stickney Residence

 Gallery I/O                 D. Wheelahan Residence

McCollam Garconniere                              Urann Residence

High Tech Pavilion                 P. Wheelahan Residence

                                 Freret Street Residence

Baron Residence

Boulet Residence

Glaser Residence

Dutruch Residence

Nius Residence

+ VILLE PLATTE TOWN SQUARE
In collaboration with Mark Shapiro
Ville Platte, LA

This proposal was a component of a study for the renewal of the historic town center of Ville Platte, LA.  As is common in many small towns, the town centers main street, with shopping and civic activities, had been abandoned over the years as the focus of daily activity had gravitated to the periphery of town.  The accommodation of automobile traffic and parking together with large box retail are typical causes. This project grew out of the concern on the part of a number of citizens of Ville Platte that these changes had eroded the civic identity of the town, and it needed to be restored.

To provide a new focus for civic and commercial activities, a town square is proposed at the intersection of two major streets in the town center.  Activities envisioned for the square include informal uses such as sitting, eating lunch, strolling and just hanging out, as well as more structured events associated with the Cotton and Smoked Meat Festivals, such as the crowning of festival queens, opening ceremonies, musical performances, dances, craft shows, etc.

A linear metal roofed pavilion, reminiscent of agricultural structures, forms the northern edge of the site and gathers a number of activities under one roof.  A raised area under the roof acts as a stage for performances and serves as a focus for the public square.  The pavilion also acts as a gateway for a proposed bicycle path connecting the town center with a nearby state park.

A raised planting bed with a tall wall of trees protects the square from the railroad right of way and a serpentine wall provides seating.  The wall begins in a dedication plaque and fountain on Main St., the sound of splashing water intended to mask the traffic noise.  Other landscape components as well as flagpoles and light fixtures are utilized to define the space and reinforce its public identity.