Both vibrant and practical, P A R K S P A C E is an intervention that helps visualize social distancing guidelines in Austin’s parks and green spaces.

As Austinites step carefully back out of their homes, we need to shift the ways we move through and interact in public spaces. To help with this transition, P A R K S P A C E provides a creative wayfinding system to encourage safe practices for our community. The site-specific installation series uses eco-friendly turf paint to delineate spaces where people can come together to enjoy their favorite outdoor activities—like picnics, yoga, and relaxing in the sun—while maintaining a safe distance.

“Creative placemaking is a communal experience and P A R K S P A C E is an installation for our times; a new way to be together, apart,” says Mayor Steve Adler, “We are so grateful to the Austin Foundation for Architecture and the talented people from the Austin design community who dreamed up and created these beautiful spaces.”

P A R K S P A C E  is designed to respond to the topography and character of each site, while highlighting native Texas wildflowers through colors and patterns. In its pilot phase, the project will be installed at Roy Guerrero Colorado River Park, Pease Park, Republic Square, and Zilker Park before the July 4th weekend, with future sites in parks across Austin and in other green spaces around the world, with other architecture foundations and centers for architecture incorporating the designs. “We could not be more excited to be part of this important, timely, relevant, and necessary project,” says Ingrid Spencer, executive director for the Austin Foundation for Architecture and AIA Austin. “P A R K S P A C E boldly weaves the elements of an architectural landscaping intervention and a social distancing awareness campaign into one exciting public outdoor experience.” “As we navigate the current situation, the Parks and Recreation Department encourages utilization of our parks and green spaces to create community safely.” says Kimberly McNeeley, Parks and Recreation Department Director. “We’re delighted to be partnering with the Austin Foundation for Architecture to facilitate their creative vision of P A R K S P A C E that will help Austinites continue to maintain physical distancing while the park goers nurture their mental, physical, and spiritual health.”

P A R K S P A C E is made possible by the Austin Foundation for Architecture with support from AIA Austin, in partnership with Austin’s Parks and Recreation Department, the Pease Park Conservancy, and the Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation.