By Embracing Heritage and Innovation
Dorrian Green, situated along the Scioto River in downtown Columbus, Ohio, is steeped in a rich tapestry of history, spanning indigenous settlements to the inception of the first European settlement in central Ohio, known as Franklinton. Over time, the site evolved into the iconic Central High School, now home to COSI, a premier science museum, the American Museum of Natural History branch, and the National Veteran’s Memorial and Museum. However, the site’s most recent incarnation as a sprawling surface parking lot posed significant environmental and community challenges, including heat island effects and unsustainable drainage systems.
A Sustainable Design Solution
MKSK embarked on a transformative journey to reclaim Dorrian Green, beginning with the replacement of the surface parking lot with an innovative underground structure. This subterranean solution not only addressed groundwater issues but also enabled enhanced park investment. Central to the design was the creation of a vibrant Central Plaza, adorned with tree-covered dining areas, illuminated fountains, and open shelters, offering a welcoming retreat for visitors. Pathways were strategically laid out to seamlessly connect the park with surrounding facilities and destinations, fostering greater community cohesion and accessibility.
Fostering Community Engagement and Learning
Dorrian Green’s park program was meticulously curated to cater to diverse community needs and interests, serving as an extension of COSI’s science and education programming. From play areas for both children and adults to specialized gardens such as the Sensory Garden, Reading Garden, and Butterfly and Pollinator Garden, the park offers myriad opportunities for outdoor exploration and hands-on learning. Native plants indigenous to central Ohio populate these green spaces, while stormwater management systems ensure water quality and conservation within the garden environment.
A Beacon of Sustainable Development
The transformation of Dorrian Green from a mundane parking lot into a thriving urban green space underscores a paradigm shift in downtown open space development. Now, Dorrian Green stands as a beacon of sustainability and community engagement, serving as a backyard neighborhood park for East Franklinton residents and a central public space for the burgeoning Scioto Peninsula development. By seamlessly blending heritage preservation with sustainable design features, Dorrian Green not only completes the Downtown Columbus Riverfront park system but also embodies a commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being. As the gateway to COSI and a vital hub for learning and recreation, Dorrian Green epitomizes the harmonious integration of nature, education, and urban living.
