
Bo Diddley Plaza Redesign
Gainesville, Florida

Redesigning this downtown plaza rejuvenates and reclaims it as a safe and welcoming park for all users.
DAG worked closely with the Gainesville CRA on a redesign of the downtown Bo Diddley Plaza, to create a safe, attractive and lively place for people to enjoy both day and night activities. Located in a historic area near the courthouse, the Plaza had become a place for the city’s homeless population to congregate. The redesign built on the many already successful uses of the plaza, such as the farmer’s market and concert events, to bring daily visitors and downtown pedestrian traffic to the Plaza on a regular basis.
A café with indoor and outdoor seating, a manned information kiosk, a new bus shelter with canopy, and softer landscaping has invigorated the area and deterred its use by vagrants. An interactive water feature is a defining element at the entrance to the park, and special lighting, pathways, and signage promote a safe and attractive environment that supports the various events and activities of the Plaza. An existing amphitheater was updated, and new restrooms, dressing rooms, storage spaces, and a green room for performers were added.
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AWARDS
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Honor Award of Excellence for Renovations / Additions
AIA Florida, 2018
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Honor Award for Masonry in Design
AIA Florida, 2018
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Honor Award
AIA Tallahassee, 2017
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Honor Award of Excellence for New Work
AIA Florida Northwest, 2016
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Honor Award of Excellence for Unbuilt
AIA Florida Northwest, 2015
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