https://www.saltdesignstudio.com/schoolyards-nav daily 0.75 2025-11-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1525713251697-WAQ9QOF5W7OIFPBUAC72/IMG_6863.JPG Schoolyards https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1721827828365-7KVQRC7TRI26I65HGX1J/CONCEPT_LA_HARRINGTON-1.jpg Schoolyards https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1744036072655-D2QE8S911RZXBCRVG061/1741100372070.jpeg Schoolyards - LEWIS C. CASSIDY SCHOOLYARD | Philadelphia PA SALT designed the new schoolyard for Lewis C. Cassidy School in the west Philadelphia neighborhood of Morris Park. The project involved a brand new, modern facility for PreK-8, extensive stormwater management and full site renovation. Significant existing grade change created both challenges and opportunities for design on this full City block site. SALT focused on developing three key themes in the schoolyard: structured play and recreation, multi-functional gathering spaces, and learning landscapes. Inspired by nearby Indian and Cobbs Creeks, and Haddington Woods, the site evokes the Pennsylvania Piedmont experience of underlying Ridge & Valley physiography. The design brings the school curriculum outdoors with an emphasis on local geology, native plant communities and pollinator habitat. Through an amphitheater, bridges and landforms, SALT was able to create a fully accessible site from all four streets, and provide engaging site features for play and program. The new schoolyard is an inclusive, flexible, and immersive outdoor environment, weaving together play, learning, and recreation for all ages and abilities. Collaborators: Ewing Cole, Perryman Shoemaker https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1744031296260-DTH8Z8L8V0C15XQ8351I/Photo+Feb+07+2025%2C+1+43+58+PM.jpg Schoolyards - SDP PLAYFUL LEARNING | Philadelphia PA With the support of the William Penn Foundation Playful Learning Grant, SALT was part of the schoolyard redesign efforts for Louis H. Farrell Elementary School, William H. Hunter Elementary School, and Joseph Pennell Elementary School from 2018-2024. The Outdoor Playful Learning Gameboards are a culmination of these efforts, designed to spark curiosity and engagement amongst K-3 students through creative learning and play. Through simple prompts and questions, the gameboards activate students’ abilities to OBSERVE, CREATE, EXPLORE, and INQUIRE around their schoolyard environment while reinforcing literacy, math, and science concepts aligned with the standards set forth by the School District of Philadelphia. Each gameboard design is uniquely shaped by the geometry and forms of its respective schoolyard, creating a playful and meaningful connection to the space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1758831873889-YK9F8RSCOYNR97ZPJDPI/Coppin_EyeLevel_sunshine.jpg Schoolyards - FANNY JACKSON COPPIN SCHOOLYARD MASTER PLAN | Philadelphia PA The School District of Philadelphia hired SALT DESIGN STUDIO to develop a Schoolyard Master Plan for Fanny Jackson Coppin School in the Passyunk Square neighborhood. This K-8 school features an unusually narrow schoolyard with very few amenities. Through a collaborative and inclusive planning process with Coppin parents and staff, SALT created a “Play Platter” design concept. This innovative approach addressed key challenges in the schoolyard, including limited play options, inadequate socialization spaces, restricted circulation, and safety concerns. The proposed design creates a flexible, open schoolyard landscape that offers a variety of play elements for students to enjoy. The proposed schoolyard features a compact climbing structure, basketball tree, hammock nets, and a small stage with integrated seating area. Angular plant beds border the site along the eastern wall, providing shade, seasonal appeal, and vital pollinator habitat. Planting was strategically added to screen utilities in the Northeast corner of the site. Long, linear benches frame the edges of the plant beds, creating places for gathering, outdoor learning and socializing. Status: Master Plan Completed January 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1724352974706-ZWTJ51JET028M1IUXQPM/Photo+Aug+22+2024%2C+11+21+30+AM.jpg Schoolyards - WILLIAM H. HUNTER SCHOOL | Philadelphia PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO was commissioned by the School District of Philadelphia to renovate the asphalt schoolyard at William H. Hunter school, a K-8 school in the Kensington neighborhood that includes a large population of students with physical and intellectual disabilities. Extensive engagement was conducted with Hunter School students to tease out concepts that captured their love of imaginary play, gaming and the supernatural. Centered around the theme: “A dream, a fantasy, a magical place!” the reimagined schoolyard creates an accessible, flexible, and vibrant outdoor space that integrates play, learning, and recreation for children of all ages and abilities. The design features a colorful, oversized pattern of pixels on the ground plane to foster the feeling of immersion, while supporting a wide range of active and passive play opportunities, imaginative exploration, and healthy social interaction. In alignment with the principles of Playful Learning Landscapes, the design incorporates five specific skill-building objectives connected to nature and ecological literacy: creative thinking, communication, collaboration, confidence-building, and critical thinking. Key elements also include a fully accessible outdoor classroom, rain garden, inclusive play areas, urban forest with native plantings, turf lawns and a variety of new seating for social gathering. Collaborators: Rodriguez Consulting, LLC Status: Construction Completed June 2024 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1704219363265-CD0O1M9PCNNLG5IR1M4S/231024_94119_RT_2_small.jpg Schoolyards - KIPP PHILADELPHIA PREPARATORY ACADEMY | Philadelphia PA Winner: 2024 Honor Award for General Design from the PA-DE Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects The redesigned schoolyard at KIPP Philadelphia Preparatory Academy transforms a barren asphalt lot into a vibrant, multifunctional space that supports play, learning, movement, and connection. Guided by KIPP’s core values—joy, resilience, and activism—the design is infused with bold colors, playful forms, and dynamic patterns to create an environment that is both uplifting and empowering. Sustainable design strategies are embedded throughout, demonstrating a commitment to environmental justice while fostering a strong sense of student agency and belonging. At the entrance of the school, students are greeted by lush greenery, colorful sculpted berms, and bold play equipment. Two circular seating areas serve dual purposes as outdoor classrooms and gathering spaces for older students, while younger students can climb, balance, and perform on vertical structures, mounds, and a turf-covered stage. On the south side of the building, a vibrant courtyard invites students and staff to dine, socialize, and play, with shaded tables, stools, a basketball half-court, and a cheerful painted ground mural. The schoolyard’s green infrastructure captures and infiltrates stormwater on-site through multiple rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable surfaces. Collaborators: KSS Architects, Ruggiero Plante Land Design Status: Construction Completed August 2023 Photography: © Jeffrey Totaro, 2023. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1744135878773-VEFE8E0FOZDP2P9KFAGL/2019-097+Literacy+Loop-16-PS.jpg Schoolyards - LOUIS H. FARRELL SCHOOL | Philadelphia PA The School District of Philadelphia commissioned SALT DESIGN STUDIO to design a new schoolyard at Farrell School that would promote playful learning activities to enhance cognitive and social development for students in kindergarten through third grade. Located in the Rhawnhurst neighborhood, Farrell serves 1,200 students in grades K-8. More than 30 different languages are spoken at this school, one of the most culturally diverse in Philadelphia. This project was funded by the William Penn Foundation to specifically advance literacy and learning goals in public schoolyards through playful learning. After a year-long engagement process with students, a schoolyard concept emerged that focused on the energy and busy-ness of an active beehive. Drawing inspiration from honeycomb patterns and social habits of bees, SALT created a schoolyard that showcases native ecology and the journey of pollinators. The design incorporates programs, elements, and learning goals voiced by students, and features a wide variety of surfaces, textures and shapes for active and passive play, performance, socializing, gardening and nature exploration. Key components include a Gateway Plaza, Literacy Loop, Outdoor Classroom & Performance Space, separate play areas for older and younger kids, and a Native Meadow & Nature Discovery Trail. The Meadow creates a substantial green buffer close to the street and filled with urban-hardy, native perennial grasses, flowers and trees. A trail through the meadow provides teachers an outdoor place for hands-on natural science learning. Installed by Mural Arts artists, the Literacy Loop is a lively and unique pavement mural that tells the story of the honeybee and its habitat, emblazoned with native plants and animals. Collaborators: Mural Arts Restored Spaces Initiative, David Mason + Associates, Rodriguez Consulting LLC, Becker & Frondorf Status: Construction Completed May 2023 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1707338839337-KRCX4TNWMN0EZS75FYGI/BUILT-AERIAL-touchup.jpg Schoolyards - JOSEPH PENNELL SCHOOL | Philadelphia PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO was commissioned by the School District of Philadelphia to strategically renovate the Joseph Pennell Schoolyard in the Bellfield neighborhood, an historically underserved area of North Philadelphia. Funded by the William Penn Foundation, a key component of this project was to advance literacy and learning goals and promote playful learning in public schoolyards Pennell serves over 400 students in grades K-5, and has a long-standing tradition of music, theater and performance. Through a multi-month engagement process with Mural Arts, students developed stories about play and learning to identify their ideal locations for site improvements and programming. The schoolyard concept that emerged from students was “Circles of Creativity and Care”, which refers to wholeness, life cycles, and connections. SALT’s ultimate schoolyard design organizes the site into six different program circles — Story, Learning, Performance, Sports, Active Play and Relaxation — to foster a variety of activities and social spaces for children and adults. Through vibrant color and circular geometry, the new schoolyard emphasizes movement — whether it is dance, drumming or dramatic expression — and creates playful spaces for creativity, learning and social connection. Collaborators: Mural Arts Restored Spaces Initiative, David Mason + Associates, Rodriguez Consulting LLC, Becker & Frondorf Status: Construction Completed May 2023 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1546523644712-HA1EKBWKHFL666GDBZRB/_W2A1331_sml.jpg Schoolyards - MARIAN ANDERSON NEIGHBORHOOD ACADEMY (FORMERLY CHESTER A. ARTHUR SCHOOL) | Philadelphia PA Winner: 2019 Excellence in Green Stormwater Infrastructure Award from the Sustainable Business Network of Philadelphia Winner: 2018 Honor Award from PA-DE Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects The Marian Anderson Neighborhood Academy, formerly known as Chester A. Arthur School) renovation project transformed an existing asphalt lot into an interactive and dynamic arena for play and learning. Through a participatory design process, SALT DESIGN STUDIO engaged teachers, students and neighbors in dialogue about school and community needs, and how to improve the site. Challenging the traditional schoolyard model, SALT converted the lot into a high-performance playground for studying habitat, systems, motion and energy. Organized into a series of educational labs, the new schoolyard design offers a myriad of hands-on opportunities for creative exploration and outdoor teaching of STEM curriculum, giving inner-city students the experience of authentic learning in the landscape. In addition, the renovated schoolyard functions as a public, neighborhood park, providing community open space in a densely populated urban area. Site improvements include a lush, native woodland with a curving walkway, an outdoor boulder classroom, interactive water wall, and a large artificial turf berm that serves as an amphitheater for students. For every 1-inch of rainfall, more than 28,000 gallons of stormwater is captured and managed through multiple bioretention areas in the landscape, and through porous paving in the parking lot. A multi-use play court features a sundial where children use their bodies to tell time with the sun. The southeastern corner of the schoolyard houses an innovative, custom climbing structure for outdoor experiments, raised beds for garden trials, and a green wall for passive building cooling. Collaborators: University of New Hampshire Stormwater Center, Cornerstone Consulting, Shift Space Design Status: Construction Completed May 2017 Photography: Sahar Coston-Hardy SALT also conducted Pre- and Post-Construction Site Assessments to document the changes in human activity and environmental conditions at Chester Arthur Schoolyard. The case study was selected for the Landscape Architecture Foundation's "Landscape Performance Series". Click here to see the full report. https://www.saltdesignstudio.com/parks-and-trails-nav daily 0.75 2026-02-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1460408434239-9Y1LVY2Q3761PVF8N086/03_taney-plantingplan-SMALL.jpg Parks & Trails - TANEY PLAYGROUND | Philadelphia PA Guided by the theme of “River, City, Tracks,” the new playground design is colorful, lively and rooted in place, reflecting the diversity and vibrancy of its urban environs. The design captured additional space west of the playground to accommodate new swings and equipment in both toddler and junior lots. The new safety surface design clearly contextualizes the playground with an abstraction of the river, the city and the tracks, the confluence of which make the Schuylkill River Park unique as an urban destination. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1460402870107-6ETCS8SQ6ON1M68W7LT1/01_DSC_0259.JPG Parks & Trails - SHISSLER RECREATION CENTER | Philadelphia PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO was invited by Mural Arts Philadelphia to help redesign and renovate a defunct spraypark at Shissler Recreation Center. Evoking the power of water in everyday life, the design juxtaposes bluestone paving underfoot, native grasses to capture spillover, seats of historic millstones and arcing jets of water. Local residents responded enthusiastically to the new design improvements, which are part of an ongoing City effort to revitalize the Fishtown neighborhood and enhance its connection to the Delaware River. Collaborator: Beverly Fisher, artist https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1602707125382-RVTMM8PRPO7J2JL3NIH6/1814_SD-PLAN-RENDER.jpg Parks & Trails - TRENTON & AUBURN NATURE PLAY | Trenton NJ SALT DESIGN STUDIO worked with Parks & Recreation on the implementation of the first nature-play space at a City-owned park in Philadelphia. Sited over a PWD stormwater management storage system that will capture runoff from adjacent streets, the project intent was to create a play area for young children using elements from nature and without the use of concrete foundations. The new natureplayscape features grass berms, native boulders, log bridges and benches, and an array of tree cookies and stumps for creative play, gross motor activities, seating and informal learning. Client: Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Status: Completed in 2019 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1658148864755-Z48MFWU9M7B52VADAJPW/2022SCH02-070.jpg Parks & Trails https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1721754345966-2IKD3UFKXU1XK5EL754O/349822598_279072657807885_4741768553066376549_n.jpg Parks & Trails - VALANIA PARK | Allentown PA Valania Park is a popular community park, located footsteps from downtown Allentown. SALT led community engagement and design for renovations to the Park, in collaboration with key neighborhood stakeholders. The design includes a suite of park amenities that were prioritized by the local community, including a new sprayground, multi-purpose lawn area, community gathering space, restroom facility, and game and picnic tables. These new features were carefully integrated into the existing park context and infrastructure, that already contains a playground, sport court, and a significant number of mature canopy trees. A custom, concrete bleacher (shown at right) provides much needed spectator and player seating, and is emblazoned with the name of Jo Jo Smith, a renowned basketball player from the neighborhood. The bleacher also provides gathering opportunities for park visitors, and the scale of it allows people to gather, while maintaining social distancing delineated by skatestops. The new lawn is animated by artful seating elements and new trees around the edges. A nature inspired sprayground is framed by an opening in the existing trees, and is populated by boulders that evoke the streams and rivers of the Lehigh Valley. When not in use, the sprayground space serves as an extension of the main gathering space. Client: The City of Allentown Status: Construction Completed 2023 Collaborators: BL Companies https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1638889186515-MULL9CE0YCMVHGZLVGSX/Photo+Nov+10%2C+2+39+13+PM.jpg Parks & Trails - THE PARK AT SPEEDWELL | Morristown NJ SALT was commissioned to design a new public park in the heart of Morristown, New Jersey, an historic small town known for its strategic role in the American Revolution. Today, Morristown is home to a diverse community of residents, a vibrant downtown and beautiful tree-lined, walkable neighborhoods. The Park at Speedwell spans more than 20’ of grade change and is surrounded by a mix of residential and commercial buildings. In conjunction with a Redevelopment Plan for the Downtown District, the Park at Speedwell provides a new social and activity venue for neighbors and visitors to Morristown. SALT’s design established three distinct rooms in the landscape, connected by a linear path. At the low end of the site, a small plaza with shade trees, public art and custom seating welcomes people in. The adjacent great lawn provides informal recreation and gathering space, nestled in by a multitude of new native trees, shrubs and grasses. The grade change midway up the site was leveraged to create play opportunities for children and adults, with a rock scramble, embankment slide, ping-pong table and game seating. The top of the site features an intimate plaza with catenary lighting and a community dining table. Client: Town of Morristown NJ Status: Construction Completed 2021 Collaborators: Dewberry Engineering https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1721830122694-YX7DIZMBOX8XK5K94SBY/IMG_7474.JPEG Parks & Trails - HAR ZION PLAYSPACE | Penn Valley PA SALT worked with Har Zion Temple & School to reimagine their early childhood play space, which contained outdated, traditional equipment under the canopy of beautiful mature trees. Located in suburban Philadelphia on a 20-acre site, Har Zion serves more than 1000 families for worship and PreK-8 education. SALT designed an inclusive, stimulating environment for nature-inspired play and social interaction. The design sensitively integrates play, gathering and other amenities within the existing woodland context of the site, and creates new opportunities for academic and religious programming. Due to the extensive tree canopy, air spading and hand excavation were utilized to protect the trees. Grading challenges were incorporated into play elements and are now fun and educational features, instead of problematic erosion issues. Client: Har Zion Temple Status: Construction Completed Fall 2022 Collaborators: Yohn Engineering & Buzz Burger Inc. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1743782242554-H5HX0TTFOZJX2MCWVUNC/Solebury+Green+MP+-+Plan+Rendering+w+Annotations.jpg Parks & Trails - SOLEBURY GREEN MASTER PLAN | Solebury PA SALT was hired by Solebury Township to develop a Master Plan for a 17-acre property they recently acquired along the Route 202 corridor. SALT completed Site Inventory & Analysis, conducted numerous interviews with stakeholders and Township staff, and facilitated a community open house. Through these engagement activities, SALT gathered input on conceptual plans for site improvements, new circulation and public amenities. The final Master Plan thoughtfully integrates all the feedback. Dubbed ‘Solebury Green,’ the vision for this new public park creates opportunities for the community to host large events in a flexible outdoor venue and features age-inclusive passive recreation options. A diversity of low-maintenance native planting greets visitors at the property entrance. New pedestrian trails traverse the site and allow visitors the chance to experience restored native meadows and woodlands, and to explore the stream bank at the lower edge of the property. Pockets for nature-based play and quiet spaces for rest and reflection are integrated throughout. Reflecting the cultural and artistic legacy of the Township, outdoor sculptures and interpretive elements create bespoke wayfinding opportunities and shape the unique character of Solebury Green. Status: Master Plan Completed January 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1684513369748-Z8PA2T7QF2IZ7ROG66EN/Perspective+01+-+annotated.jpg Parks & Trails - HOPE PARK VISION PLAN | Philadelphia PA SALT Design Studio was commissioned by Impact Services to create a Vision Plan for Hope Park in collaboration with the local residents. Our team conducted site analysis of the park, researched the history of the area, and discovered that this Kensington neighborhood severely lacks healthy, green space and safe public places for people to socialize, play and gather. Connecting with the community living closest to park, we gained insight into the daily, physical challenges confronting both this site and the immediate neighbors. Over a 14-week period, SALT engaged neighbors in creating a renewed park vision, learning about the community needs and concerns, and ultimately developing a community supported Vision Plan for the future of Hope Park. Status: Master Plan Completed April 2023 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1758656855034-VCRECPE42XL0S1T6IOAV/so2025019_01.jpg Parks & Trails - ATGLEN BOROUGH HALL PARK | Atglen PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO was hired by Atglen Borough to facilitate a participatory design process with residents for a new 2-acre park at Atglen Borough Hall, located at the western edge of a largely agricultural region in Chester County, PA. Utilizing SALT‘s 2020 Atglen Borough 4-Parks Master Plan, the Borough was able to successfully obtain both State and County grant funding for the park’s design and construction. SALT conducted a series of community engagement workshops and activities to identify residents’ desires for social gathering, play and amenities. The new park reflects the unique character of Atglen Borough through rustic materials, native plants and color. For young children and teens, the park features two distinct play zones: one centered on active climbing and balancing elements, and another designed for flexible, imaginative nature-based play. Additional elements include a picnic lawn, restored woodland edge, accessible parking, and a new trailhead connecting to the Chester Valley/Enola Low-Grade Trail. Now a vibrant civic hub, Atglen Borough Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities and welcoming spaces for intergenerational gathering. Collaborators: Becker Engineering, Sharpe Engineering Status: Construction Completed July 2024 Photography: Sam Oberter / Drone Aerial Photography: SALT Design Studio https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1611589497036-3U607M511LSKCKKFIGX8/WYNNEFIELD-177.jpg Parks & Trails - HANCOCK PLAYGROUND | Philadelphia PA Located in the Olde Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia, Hancock Playground sits on a historic former manufacturing site and has served the community as a recreational hub for nearly a century. Informed by extensive community feedback, SALT DESIGN STUDIO developed a three-part renovation strategy focused on bridging between long-time and new residents, younger and older populations; embracing the evolution of the neighborhood and its growing diversity, and celebrating the industrial heritage of the region. The revitalized park includes a welcoming entrance framed by a grove of shade trees and neighborhood amenities, such as benches, bike racks, and a bottle-filling station. There are distinct play zones that offer dynamic experiences for different age groups: a toddler play area that supports early development, an adventurous climbing structure for older children that will stand as a distinctive attraction at Hancock Playground, and a fitness zone that houses exercise equipment for all ages to promote multi-generational engagement. A lush planting ribbon softens the site, offering habitat and shade, while a central lawn creates space for picnics and flexible community programming. Collaborators: Rodriguez Consulting LLC, CHA Consulting, Inc. (formerly D’HUY Engineering, Inc.) Status: Construction Completed November 2020 Photography: Sahar Coston-Hardy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1602707027669-AO52FPN7TBRBFA4QPIAR/TUSTIN+PLAZA.jpg Parks & Trails - TUSTIN RECREATION CENTER MASTER PLAN | Philadelphia PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO led a multi-disciplinary team to develop a Master Plan for Tustin Playground & Recreation Center. Tustin serves as a critical community hub for the Overbrook neighborhood and features a recreation center building, ballfield, swimming pool with sprayground, two basketball courts and a playground. The planning process included numerous community meetings facilitated by SALT with local residents (youth, volunteer mentors, neighborhood leaders, seniors) and Recreation Center staff to solicit input on desired programming, prioritize goals for improvements and to determine the best locations for various types of indoor and outdoor programming. The resulting Master Plan provides an exciting and responsive comprehensive vision for this well-loved recreation center and vital community hub in Overbrook. Collaborators: Woodcock Design, Mark Ulrick Engineers, Becker & Frondorf Status: Master Plan Completed March 2020 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1542058084079-XPOIMK3YUZRB3OLEKVVU/BIRDSEYE-RENDERING_draft_2018_1109.jpg Parks & Trails - BARMOUTH TRAILHEAD AT THE CYNWYD HERITAGE TRAIL | Bala Cynwyd PA The Cynwyd Heritage Trail is a 1.8-mile-long rail trail in Lower Merion, PA that follows the route of the former SEPTA Cynwyd Line railway from Cynwyd Station to Belmont Avenue, and forking along the way, across the Manayunk Bridge into Philadelphia. The Friends of the Cynwyd Heritage Trail commissioned SALT DESIGN STUDIO to conduct community engagement and develop a Schematic Design for Barmouth Trailhead. Located at the former Barmouth Station, the Trailhead now serves as an important access point for Trail users. SALT proposed a significant trail realignment to reduce conflicts between trail users and activities in the central gathering space. The realigned trail design enhances program opportunities at the Trailhead, provides much-need user amenities, such as seating, shade and restrooms, and maximizes Barmouth as a neighborhood and community hub along the Trail. Collaborators: NTM Engineering, Inc. Status: Schematic Design Completed January 2019 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1752872932861-0CETJVUPU0A4SSG18DMD/BalaPocketPark_Autumn2018.jpg Parks & Trails - BALA AVENUE POCKET PARK | Bala Cynwyd PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO was commissioned to design a new community pocket park and plaza as part of the revitalization of Bala Avenue. Nestled between new and existing buildings, this park creates a new public gathering space in Bala Cynwyd’s historic commercial corridor. The new central plaza is framed by a textural diversity of perennials and shrubs and punctuated with four canopy trees, creating a garden oasis on busy Bala Avenue. The landscape creates an important visual green link between the nearby Cynwyd Heritage Trail, the Cynywd Regional Rail Train Station, and the historic Village of Bala. In addition, the plaza provides a new direct pedestrian access to retail shops from the adjacent public parking lot. Outdoor seating provides a boost for nearby cafes and shops, and helps to create a social anchor in this commercial area. The plaza hosts seasonal community events, such as the Bala Avenue Block Party and the Bala Avenue Arts Walk. Status: Construction Completed April 2016 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1460402579356-UUR6A3BSK8QH1YO59HSC/MEADOW+PERSPECTIVE_3.jpg Parks & Trails - GORGAS PARK STORMWATER MASTER PLAN | Philadelphia PA Gorgas Park is a heavily programmed, historic recreational venue in the Roxborough neighborhood of Philadelphia. Founded as a public space in 1895, the park straddles the high point between the Schuylkill River and Wissahickon Creek, and spans more than 75’ of grade change across 20 acres. The park encompasses open lawn, walking paths, playground, dense wooded areas, an event gazebo, service buildings, and a baseball field nicknamed the Mud Flats, due to persistent flooding and erosion issues. With funding from a PWD Stormwater Management Improvement Grant, SALT DESIGN STUDIO was commissioned to create a Stormwater Management Master Plan for the park and adjacent Roxborough High School. To minimize stormwater runoff and improve how the park functions, a suite of stormwater management practices (SMP) were developed to alleviate drainage issues in different areas of the park. SALT’s Master Plan breaks the site down into smaller drainage areas for efficient capture and infiltration in situ. Proposed SMPs include native meadows to replace compacted lawn, infiltration berms, bioswales and a boulder wall for slope stabilization. In 2016, the City of Philadelphia Parks and Recreation received a $400,000 grant from DCNR to implement the stormwater and site improvements identified in SALT's Master Plan. Collaborators: Meliora Design Status: Master Plan Completed January 2015 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1460400731101-FJI1W565BPMWYV339ZNP/DSC_0023.JPG Parks & Trails - JACK'S MARINA WETLAND RESTORATION | Croydon PA The Philadelphia Regional Port Authority (PRPA) purchased Jack’s Marina, a 35-acre degraded wetland site in Bucks County, at the confluence of the Delaware River and Neshaminy Creek, and commissioned the Louis Berger Group and SALT DESIGN STUDIO to evaluate the site, and design and facilitate the restoration process. The site serves as compensatory mitigation for PRPA’s construction of a new marine terminal at the South Seaport in Philadelphia. Ecological restoration of Jack’s Marina involved creation of intertidal and subtidal habitats, removal and management of invasive species, establishment of underwater plants, shoreline stabilization, and creation of habitat for redbelly turtles. SALT designed the upland landscape, a public walkway and fishing platform, as well as interpretive signage to educate visitors about the restoration project. The site will be monitored by NOAA and the US Fish & Wildlife Service for five years to assess the restoration process. Collaborators: Louis Berger Group Status: Construction Completed in 2014 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1762371091688-4O5XIDFC5DNB5AFTGJXT/01_DSC08552web.jpg Parks & Trails - HARRISON STREET PARK | Princeton NJ Nestled in the historic Jugtown district of Princeton, this 4-acre woodland park is well-loved by neighbors. The Borough of Princeton and surrounding residential community were interested in rehabilitating the park to provide a richer, more ecologically-diverse landscape and creating a unique and less structured play experience for children. SALT DESIGN STUDIO was commissioned by the Borough of Princeton to conduct an ecological assessment of the landscape, facilitate community meetings, and to develop an environmentally sensitive master plan for the future of this community park. The first phase of park improvements included a new trail through the park connecting two neighborhoods, green stormwater infrastructure and habitat restoration. The new bridge (pictured above) gives pedestrians a lift over a lushly planted bioswale that captures and infiltrates runoff. In addition, new play and gathering spaces create opportunities for children and adults to exercise and socialize. The Council Ring (pictured at right) offers an informal play space for children and gathering area for adults. Collaborators: Edgewater Design, LLC Status: Construction Completed July 2010 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1460134934038-2BQ474F7IREXVLQW0YRA/PERSPECTIVE_FROM+CHERRY+STREET_v2.jpg Parks & Trails - COXE PARK | Philadelphia PA Finalist: Coxe Park Design Competition SALT DESIGN STUDIO was invited by Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and Friends of Coxe Park to submit a design proposal for the renovation of Coxe Park. SALT’s redesign of Coxe Park draws inspiration from Benjamin Franklin’s “Junto,” which assembled a diverse group of people to share ideas, create networks, and promote social action. Community Junto creates a gathering place that encourages neighbors to bond through collective interaction, play and social exchange. Referencing Franklin’s legacy of innovation connects the park to the parkway through imaginative reuse of materials, artistry and light, reinventing Coxe Park for the next generation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1460136488630-PTZQ59YRKDV4TWDN9DSP/Linwood+Park.jpg Parks & Trails - LINWOOD PARK | Ardmore PA Winner: 2018 Excellence in Green Stormwater Infrastructure Award from the Sustainable Business Network of Philadelphia Winner: 2014 Public Spaces Garden Blue Ribbon from the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society Winner: 2009 Merit Award for Analysis and Planning from the PA-DE Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects The Township of Lower Merion purchased a one-acre parking lot in Ardmore and commissioned SALT DESIGN STUDIO to design a new community park. Early in the process, SALT identified potential public and private partners for fundraising, community outreach and educational campaigns. Through a participatory process, involving hands-on charrettes with adults and children, SALT’s team developed a design rooted in the native hydrology, topography, and riparian habitats of Cobbs Creek and Indian Creek watersheds. The park design reintroduces the former ridgeline between the two watersheds, creating a playful and bold landform. The edge of the landform features a colorful, low curving wall which undulates across the site, its surface contracting and expanding along the way, providing seating, a stage or a walkway. The landform directs stormwater, creates flexible, unprogrammed rooms for recreation and relaxation, and changes the visual perception of the space. An abundance of new canopy and understory trees, shrubs and perennials create a multi-layered, native woodland while a rich and varied groundlayer enliven the lowland habitat and the existing mature Red Oaks. Together, the landforms and plant communities foster a diversity of native wildlife, making this park a critical contribution to the broader network of green space within the region. Today, Linwood Park is a model for community stewardship, and the Friends of Linwood Park have been recognized by Lower Merion Township and Montgomery County for their efforts. Numerous community events are held at the park throughout all seasons, and it has become an established community centerpiece for neighbors and visitors alike. Collaborators: Studio Gaea, Yerkes Associates Status: Construction Completed May 2010 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1616508720677-1CURU5P3DRSYJ7XFJB9R/2021_0204_ATGLEN%252BSUBMISSION-FINAL_Page_1.jpg Parks & Trails - ATGLEN 4PARKS MASTER PLAN | Atglen PA Winner: 2020 Honor Award for Planning from the PA-DE Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects The Borough of Atglen, a small municipality located in the semi-rural region of western Chester County PA, was awarded a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources to conduct a planning and design study for four open-space parcels in Atglen. SALT DESIGN STUDIO was hired to lead the planning, design, and community engagement process to develop a Master Park Site Development Plan. The four parcels being studied varied in scale, ecology and existing programming, creating a great opportunity to develop a diverse parks and recreation system for this Borough. The planning process included community meetings, study committee meetings and stakeholder interviews facilitated by SALT to solicit input on recreational needs and design preferences. Community feedback shared throughout the project consistently expressed support for protecting and preserving the natural environment, while creating a distinctive character for each park with new recreational amenities. Highlights of proposed park improvements: Valley Avenue Park: Creates a destination park in the Borough that offers regulation sports fields, dog park, fitness trail, trailhead and restroom pavilion, bike pump track, and other active recreational amenities; as well as restoring the riparian corridor and wet meadow as an environmental, educational, and passive-recreation component. Church Street Park: Revitalizes Church Street Park as a welcoming community and event space that includes a picnic pavilion, multi-purpose recreational lawn with loop walking path, nature-play and traditional playground, entrance plaza, and ecological stormwater management. Borough Hall Park: Establishes a new gateway to Atglen with a trailhead and pedestrian connection to the future Chester Valley Trail extension/Enola Low Grade Trail along the rail corridor, and a new playground. (Design and construction documentation for this park was completed by SALT and construction was completed in July 2024.) 206 Main Street Park: Reinvigorates new energy and activity in the downtown core through the creation of a lively pocket park, replete with seating, native plantings, a spray-ground, and concessions stand. Collaborators: BL Companies Status: Master Plan Completed March 2021 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1770917339570-QY3XR9HCOE9TT8ZPV068/clux2cdv56yk0vo2umqk58ktn-ziehler-playground-aerial-04.0.9.2671.1981+-+IMAGE+TOUCHUP+extra+purple.jpg Parks & Trails - ZIEHLER RECREATION CENTER | Philadelphia PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO led a five-year transformation of Ziehler Playground, a 7-acre public park in Philadelphia’s Olney neighborhood. The extensive renovations establish the park as a vibrant community hub anchored by a dynamic, inclusive playground offering multigenerational play and fitness, new basketball courts featuring bold pavement murals, and generous seating areas that foster social connection. New pedestrian-scale and field lighting enhance safety, while integrated green stormwater infrastructure—two planted rain gardens and a subsurface basin beneath courts—manage runoff from the park and adjacent streets and support biodiversity. The recreation building received major energy-efficient system upgrades, a new shade structure, and colorful façade treatment coordinating with playground elements, collectively transforming Ziehler into a resilient, inclusive, welcoming destination for generations. Client: City of Philadelphia, Rebuild Status: Construction Completed 2024 Collaborators: Meliora Design, Ian Smith Design Group, Becker & Frondorf, Community Capacity Builders, CHA Consulting https://www.saltdesignstudio.com/about-1 daily 0.75 2026-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1484836249555-PQPI9MXRLRV5HED59P7U/SALT+Logo+SQSPC.jpg ABOUT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1731438630086-O8H157YLPDJWHZ4DGLPK/Photo+Nov+06+2024%2C+12+25+06+PM.jpg ABOUT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/a5fd20c6-68d6-450b-ade9-72d7e986da98/D1B33240-41D2-4409-9789-F9A9DEC27D10.jpg ABOUT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/0ff7014f-b4b2-478a-9b87-605b93182925/SALT_20years-52.jpg ABOUT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/3e5e23f0-83e2-4dd2-9230-fcb97647f6db/SALT_Brick.jpg ABOUT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/853e5d03-735f-4a5d-81a0-96e09e51c89a/WBE_Seal_RGB.jpg ABOUT SALT DESIGN STUDIO is a WBENC-Certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/fe9ac196-f743-4ee9-a527-140f534051ae/asla-new-logo.png ABOUT - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/26ae50c9-7f64-4f80-8be1-419189f5d003/sbn.png ABOUT - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/46e023a9-cea4-47a8-9d07-7789ee7c8a02/gsi+partners.png ABOUT - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/750da6fd-9b20-459f-a5fd-e147f2361b33/DP_Logo_primary_TT.jpg ABOUT - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/908fc074-d6f5-4863-82cb-0da2d71a6400/ABOUT-BRICK.jpg ABOUT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/c0450c3b-4958-4917-b83e-ea6b6e13bc57/_L5A6939.JPG ABOUT Sara Pevaroff Schuh, RLA Founder & Principal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/28d94b0a-c782-4ebd-aa11-0dec32e10272/_L5A6986.JPG ABOUT Katrina Rogus, RLA Studio Director https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/de19b418-e723-4963-9a14-b83ab02520d1/_L5A6829.JPG ABOUT - Make it stand out Le (Cindy) Xu, RLA, LEED BD+C AP Innovation Director https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/71a263f7-ec8f-442d-88b5-4ccefcd18abd/Shannon_Opt3.jpg ABOUT - Make it stand out Shannon Rafferty, RLA Landscape Architect https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/79f00a3f-170e-43c4-95f7-6a466932803d/Gabrielle_Website+Headshot.jpg ABOUT - Make it stand out Gabrielle Saunders Landscape Designer https://www.saltdesignstudio.com/urban-spaces-nav daily 0.75 2026-02-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1720705080227-23XT0YC2SJX3QVZGAZCF/1716_PUBLIC-GARDEN-RENDER_SILHOUETTES_2018_0816.jpg Urban Spaces & Streetscapes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1720710326260-XE85XSK57R8G5MBYL3UW/updated-model_2-PLAZA.jpg Urban Spaces & Streetscapes https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/t/668fff3ca744194e0bcf25b8/1720560140592/ Urban Spaces & Streetscapes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1720726994222-CA07CHX3JDGKRMH77QT7/Safe+Routes+GSI+Rendering-L-05.jpg Urban Spaces & Streetscapes - SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL GREEN STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE | Philadelphia PA As part of the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) initiative, SALT DESIGN STUDIO worked on Green Stormwater Infrastructure projects for the Philadelphia Water Department. The SRTS program promotes walking and bicycling to school through infrastructure improvements and incentives to improve safety and levels of physical activity for students. For the three elementary schools SALT worked on, stormwater bumpouts were designed to capture and infiltrate runoff, green the streetscape and create a safe and welcoming sidewalk condition for pedestrians. Trees, shrubs and perennials in each stormwater planter were selected for their tolerance to urban conditions and high performance in city rain gardens. In addition, the specific plant species were chosen to correspond to each adjacent school’s color theme. For example, plants with blue and white foliage or flower color are being used for Pennypacker Elementary School, while yellows and greens are being used for Duckrey Elementary School, and reds and whites for Spruance Elementary School. Client: Philadelphia Water Department Status: Design Completed 2019 Collaborators: JACOBS https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1762375766991-DXP7ATOZYU7BSC9AW8RM/Seasonal+Plant+Wheel.jpg Urban Spaces & Streetscapes - PHL 2026 VISION PLAN | Philadelphia PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO developed a 2026 Landscape Vision Plan to commemorate the 250th anniversary of signing the Declaration of Independence. Through a thematic rebranding with the color red, the 2026 Landscape Vision Plan integrates the airport’s eco-history with Philadelphia’s heritage and vibrant cultural life. Red is indelibly woven into Philadelphia’s identity as the City of Brotherly Love since its founding—in the red stripes of the U.S. flag and abundance of local, red clay brick in the urban fabric to the City’s baseball uniforms, its multi-cultural mural arts program, and the iconic Robert Indiana Love sculpture. A brilliant palette of robust, drought-tolerant native plants forms a “stream” of red tones in the landscape—reflecting the historical tidal river ecology of the site. The carefully chosen plant selection forms a cohesive, color-themed landscape that offers seasonal splendor with red buds, blooms, stems and leaves. Complementing this natural tapestry, red solar lights atop thin vertical tubes dazzle in the plant beds at night, and animate the landscape year-round, serving as a constant reminder of Philadelphia’s enduring vibrancy and charm. Status: Vision Plan Completed September 2023 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1720707698341-PKK2C5N9PIDPN31D3Q7X/2101+Wash+-+Plaza+Perspective.png Urban Spaces & Streetscapes - 2102 WASHINGTON AVENUE MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT | Philadelphia PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO collaborated with JKRP Architects for a mixed-use development at the former Frankford Chocolate Factory in Southwest Center City, a site uniquely positioned between a residential neighborhood and a commercial-industrial corridor. With the narrow open space situated between two buildings and an underground parking structure complicating design and planting strategies, SALT introduced the concept of a “woonerf”—a pedestrian-priority shared street—to create a transitional public space that knits the residential and commercial edges while providing space for gathering, movement, and social connection. SALT’s scope involves the design of public gathering areas, an occupiable green roof, and a variety of site amenities. The design incorporates large curvilinear raised planters that provide connected root zones for trees and create multiple opportunities for seating throughout the woonerf. The planters define the pedestrian realm with a signature landscape element, and provide an attractive green buffer between the residential and commercial uses along the street. They feature a multi-layered palette of native trees, shrubs, perennial grasses and groundcovers to mitigate urban heat island and add four-season interest to the site. Paving and planter walls include interpretive graphics showcasing the cultural and physical history of the Frankford Chocolate Factory. Additional site amenities include a selection of fixed and moveable furniture, bike racks, lighting, and custom artist murals. Collaborators: JKRP Architects, Guy Engineering Status: Currently Under Construction https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1752873704187-2VJJ61D4P8ZI7IMGB3OL/Photo%2BJul%2B10%2B2023%252C%2B11%2B06%2B56%2BAM.jpg Urban Spaces & Streetscapes - FREEDOM GREENS & GARDENS | Philadelphia PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO was selected by Get Fresh Daily to conduct community engagement and design a pocket park for a site adjacent to Global Leadership Academy in the Cobbs Creek neighborhood of West Philadelphia. The goal was to create a beautiful and productive garden space dedicated to exploring African culture, the meaning of wellness, and the concept of ubuntu. SALT conducted stakeholder engagement events and hands-on workshops with the girls of the Growing + Glowing Mini Camp, as well with local residents. Installed with neighborhood and school volunteers, the new ‘Freedom Greens & Gardens’ opened to the public on Juneteenth 2021. Deeply rooted in community, the garden design utilizes raised planters and perimeter beds to shape space, create nooks for seating and gathering, and features a central community table for dining, garden activities and education. Many of the edible plants have deep roots in traditional African cooking and medicinal treatments. Color abounds in plants, graphics, and furnishings, giving Freedom Greens and Gardens lively energy and appeal to all who pass by. Collaborators: Greener Partners, Philly Orchard Project Status: Implementation Completed June 2021 Photos courtesy of Get Fresh Daily https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1668789222939-X1RYVJROWX2SGYV13VEK/SALT_WANAMAKER-1.jpg Urban Spaces & Streetscapes - WANAMAKER BUILDING PLAZA & STREETSCAPE | Philadelphia PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO developed a modern and functional plaza and streetscape treatments at the west entrance of the historic Wanamaker Building in Center City Philadelphia. In tandem with interior building upgrades, the plaza serves downtown office workers, tourists, and pedestrian passersby. Expanding the existing plant bed gave room to include striking bands of native and shade-tolerant plants interspersed with bands of light stone that extend the adjacent hardscape pattern. This plant and stone pattern is intended to be visually exciting from the surrounding skyscrapers above and while walking by at ground level. A 25’ illuminated interpretive panel on the granite wall at the sidewalk highlights the Wanamaker history and John Wanamaker’s retail legacy. At night, the interpretive panel, a custom ‘WANAMAKER’ sign at the street, and new columnar fixtures light up to bring nighttime presence to this important landmark. Custom-designed benches dot the granite wall, providing much needed seating for people to sit and socialize, enjoy a lunch time break, or people watch. Altogether, this renovated plaza, and streetscape garden revitalize critical public space around City Hall. Collaborators: Tantillo Architecture Status: Construction Completed March 2021 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1720726595490-5CZC1B2BR1WCLL53VTF4/NO+LIBS_EDITS-7.jpg Urban Spaces & Streetscapes - NORTHERN LIBERTIES GREEN STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE | Philadelphia PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO designed multiple Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) installations in the City of Philadelphia to advance the mission of the Green City, Clean Waters initiative. Working through an On-Call team for PWD, SALT developed and designed surface expression of stormwater management for several sites in Northern Liberties, an active residential neighborhood northeast of downtown Philadelphia. The sites provide different opportunities for design interventions based on site context and characteristics. Stormwater Management Practices (SMPs) include stormwater planters, rain gardens, depaving, and permeable pavers. These installations provide significant benefits for the neighborhood, including on-site capture and infiltration of stormwater, water quality improvements, reduced stormwater discharge into storm sewers and CSOs, additional tree canopy cover, and reduced impervious area through depaving to help reduce urban heat island effect. In addition to the significant ecological and financial benefits, these GSI designs increase the aesthetic value of each site, transforming gray, lifeless areas of concrete and asphalt into rich, textured landscapes with colorful, layered habitats of native plants. Collaborators: Gilmore & Associates Status: Construction Completed: Fall 2019 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1602696392767-83Q6W739S291J6OROB7V/LANCASTER+AVE_PLANS+FOR+WEBSITE5.jpg Urban Spaces & Streetscapes - UPPER LANCASTER AVENUE CORRIDOR MASTER PLAN | Philadelphia PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO worked with Overbrook West Neighbors (OWN) to secure a Corridor Enhancement Grant from the Philadelphia Commerce Department. The Grant was used to develop a Corridor Master Plan for Upper Lancaster Avenue between N. 63rd and N. 56th Streets in the Overbrook neighborhood of Philadelphia. The Corridor Master Plan provides a long-range planning blueprint for this section of Lancaster Avenue, creating a unified vision to improve the safety, functionality, and character of the corridor. The corridor is a highly trafficked route in the City, but lacks the amenities that create a safe, comfortable and attractive streetscape for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. SALT developed a corridor analysis that identified significant hazards and resources, and engaged with residents and business owners to understand their concerns and to clarify their future vision of Lancaster Avenue. Utilizing the analysis, SALT developed a plan that addressed key deficiencies along Lancaster Avenue and provided recommendations that reflect the types of improvements desired by the community. SALT created an online survey for community members to prioritize improvement goals, and the Master Plan recommendations responded to their feedback. The final Master Plan and report includes recommendations for locations of Green Stormwater Infrastructure, pop-up event spaces, mid-block and intersection pedestrian bumpouts, corridor greening, opportunities for neighborhood landmarks, and other strategies that can be part of future improvements along the corridor. Collaborators: NTM Engineering Status: Master Plan Completed April 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1622641171684-9W8VYOPMBXD10N1C1HOX/image-asset.jpeg Urban Spaces & Streetscapes - THE GRANT MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT AT NoBA | Bala Cynwyd PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO was commissioned by Cross Properties to design a streetscape and public plaza for a new multi-story, mixed-use building a few blocks from the SEPTA Cynwyd Regional Rail Train Station. Project goals involved making a multi-family “live-work-play” environment with access to an engaging public space reflective of the unique character of historic Bala Village. The new landscape provides flexible space for public events, social gathering, and informal opportunities to relax outdoors. Interventions within the streetscape and plaza help mediate the scale between building and street, and have aided in the revitalization of neighborhood place-making and branding for the Bala Village district. The design includes extensive tree planting, pedestrian-scale lighting, seating, and streetscape amenities, including bicycle racks, furniture and street trees. By employing a variety of green stormwater infrastructure techniques in the streetscape and plaza, such as porous pavers, underground tree trenches, and rain gardens, the site design establishes a regenerative and holistic approach to natural systems and to urban outdoor spaces. Collaborators: Yohn Engineering, Bernardon Status: Construction Completed January 2021 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1480350780471-QOFTFXS02AY4IMG528LF/IMG_1069.JPG Urban Spaces & Streetscapes - LCANASTER PUBLIC LIBRARY i-SCULPTURE | Lancaster PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO was commissioned to design and implement a permanent, public artwork, as part of the city-wide Poetry Paths initiative. Poetry Paths, sponsored by Franklin & Marshall College and supported by the City of Lancaster, introduces the public to poetry through site-specific works of visual art on the street. Sited outside the Public Library in downtown Lancaster, the “i” sculpture is a bench, an anchor and a lens for understanding the place, through the words of Emily Dickinson’s poem, “I Dwell in Possibility”. As a public marker, the “i” engages and alters the present dynamics of the space, and connects – both conceptually and visually – to the surrounding context of the library, city hall and streetscape. Lauded by the public and the Mayor’s office for its fresh and inventive attitude, the “i” sculpture beckons to urban dwellers: read, rest, reflect, and return. Collaborator: Artist Erin Gleason Fabricator: Irvin Services Status: Construction Completed February 2012 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1720729307800-ICPAKZEM2QF9LBOT0V0R/PERSPECTIVE+-+BALA+SHOP.png Urban Spaces & Streetscapes - CITY AVENUE LANDSCAPE MASTER PLAN | Philadelphia/Lower Merion Township PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO was commissioned by the City Avenue Special Services District to develop a Landscape Master Plan for a 2.7 mile stretch of City Avenue between N. 63rd Street and Presidential Boulevard on both the Philadelphia and Lower Merion Township sides. SALT conducted extensive field investigations and site analysis that identified significant hazards to pedestrians and opportunity areas for intervention. Our team also engaged with residents and business owners from both municipalities to understand concerns and tease out future visions for City Avenue. Utilizing analysis and stakeholder input, SALT developed a plan that addressed key deficiencies along the corridor through distinctive, community-supported design recommendations that make City Avenue a more accessible, lively and safe place for pedestrians. The final Master Plan included a branded design toolkit of key strategies to guide design and implementation of future improvements. Together, the Plan and toolkit comprise a holistic and sustainable framework for managing the City Avenue streetscape into the future. Collaborators: AKRFP (formerly E&LP Associates Inc.), Connect The Dots Status: Master Plan Completed December 2023 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1770926177468-A2GIU522TSVEWCLYCVZQ/Ridge%2BAve%2BStreetscape%2BStudy_Perspective%2B1.jpg Urban Spaces & Streetscapes - RIDGE AVENUE STREETSCAPE MASTER PLAN | Philadelphia PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO was selected by the City of Philadelphia to develop a Streetscape Master Plan for a half-mile stretch of Ridge Avenue, a historically significant commercial corridor once known for its vibrant jazz, arts, and Black-owned businesses but now challenged by disinvestment and a lack of amenities. Through site analysis, historic research, and extensive community engagement, SALT uncovered stories and themes that shaped the plan’s interpretive and design strategies. The resulting vision introduces artful pavement patterns, playful learning elements, and a self-guided audio tour, alongside essential improvements such as new shade trees, stormwater management, safer crossings, street furniture, and enhanced bus stops. A phased implementation framework positions Ridge Avenue for renewed identity, vibrancy, and cultural celebration. Client: City of Philadelphia Department of Planning & Development, Division of Housing and Community Development Status: Master Plan Completed 2025 Collaborators: Rodriguez Consulting, LLC. https://www.saltdesignstudio.com/salt-home daily 1.0 2026-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1752248140788-ZRQVR2TOZOB5H531E7VI/Nicetown+Low+Line_3D+Model_2025_0701.jpg COVER PAGES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1761677601315-8KHJBEDDUXSLQAP5IKM5/so2025019_10.jpg COVER PAGES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1761686446805-YS1TGTBDUER4Q67JNU0B/EDIT_9-26-25+PHL+Terminal+Landscape+Project-93.jpg COVER PAGES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1764866992431-13O64CW8YGQ74E0LYS34/ST+DAVID.jpg COVER PAGES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1764866790346-9B4PJVQEJNNC2OSVDC34/COVER+PAGE3.jpg COVER PAGES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1764867324446-QJT65JDWMGANU8NXERUY/COVER+PAGE.jpg COVER PAGES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1764867732415-3G2O3TJA4WB38HCV1DEK/COVER+PAGE2.jpg COVER PAGES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1764885292792-MSMV9WWODMWG6G4PTBLK/KNG+COVER+PAGE.jpg COVER PAGES https://www.saltdesignstudio.com/campuses-nav daily 0.75 2025-11-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1504631867665-5LJA3RRWCFNI4NEZ55E3/Courtyard+Plan.jpg Campuses - WAWA INC. INTERIOR COURTYARD Wawa PA This scheme presents a garden designed purely for visual effect from outside of the space. A courtyard of Delaware river stone is accentuated by two large boulders, creating a soothing, zen-garden quality and recalling the native geology expressed near the Annex 4 entrance. Surrounding the river stone is a banded carpet of flowering groundcover plants and short, ornamental grasses that highlight the original roses planted by the Grahame Wood Family. A grove of paper birch trees add year-round seasonal interest. Bluestone steppers create an access path from the Red Roof entry through the river stone to the existing stairs by Annex 5. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1501704255411-ZDTGX6EGO73JDL047E5B/DSC_0520.JPG Campuses - WAWA INC. CAMPUS ENTRANCE | Wawa PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO was commissioned to design the new entrance and landscape for the Red Roof Expansion project at Wawa Inc. Corporate Headquarters. The building expansion, designed by Jacobs/Wyper Architects, and site renovation tie together the unique history of the Red Roof building with the innovative growth of Wawa Inc. The new entrance design includes a central courtyard connecting the two buildings, and provides an outdoor area for seating which previously did not exist. The newly designed paths and ADA ramp are lined by lush planting beds and native trees to bring a rich, ecological quality to the campus entrance. Collaborators: Jacobs/Wyper Architects https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1501769853046-PTKOMB3LYYI958P3S017/DSC_0357.JPG Campuses - WAWA INC. DINING TERRACE | Wawa PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO was commissioned by Wawa Inc. to design a 5000 SF outdoor seating and dining space that ties together an existing office building with the new expansion project. The outdoor terrace is host to two large raised planter beds and seat walls, with a diverse palette of colorful perennials and understory trees. The much needed outdoor space provide an opportunity for employees to eat lunch, relax, and enjoy the beautiful vista overlooking the adjacent woodlands. Collaborators: Jacobs/Wyper Architects, JJL Studio https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1525713048287-7CFUV7A8LHS0UYJ1PPPW/IMG_0488_crop.jpg Campuses https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1525713109058-2RMJP7EJI1DS97XWUK7U/01.JPG Campuses https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1587498254086-AWUZYEOTRWI662IOUZYZ/ROWAN_SALT+VIEW+01.jpg Campuses - ROWAN UNIVERSITY: WILSON DANCE HALL SALT, working with Fifteen Architecture + Design, has been commissioned to develop the site design for a new building addition of Wilson Hall at Rowan University, which will house the college’s growing dance program. The Wilson Hall building expansion provides an excellent opportunity to connect staff and students to nearby Rowan Pond, an important ecological feature, as well as enhance the west campus with a simple and elegant setting for movement and socializing. The building and its surrounding landscape will offer a viewshed to the pond, and the proposed landscape will enrich the ecological health of the University’s existing lowland. Establishing a native rain garden between the building expansion and a new pedestrian pathway creates a beautiful, ecologically sensitive frame for the view in and out of the building and will infiltrate stormwater and reduce runoff. The addition of native canopy trees, an entrance plaza, and sculptural site furnishings provide important amenities for the campus community, creating an attractive and functional campus landscape. Images shown here are in-progress renders of the design https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1460399289504-RKTLS8VV0MDR1YMO7922/04_pSchoolPorch_finalperspect_small.jpg Campuses - SCHUYLKILL CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION MASTER PLAN | Philadelphia PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO led the development of a Master Plan for the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education. The 368-acre site is home to a rich collection of natural resources and aesthetic experiences, amplified by a variety of historic structures. The focus of the planning process was distilling the image and brand the Schuylkill Center wants to present to the public, and translating that vision into a coherent and memorable landscape. During Phase 1, several major themes for the institution emerged: environmental art in the woods, preservation of forest tranquility in tandem with restoration, and serving as a model for a sustainable building-landscape interface. Key opportunities included redesign of the Visitor Center entry drive and landscape, restoration along property edges, design of public access points for hikers and cyclists, and creation of nature playscape. Collaborators: Meliora Design, Re:Vision Architecture https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1721073257600-4TP7XPY28UWWJLB7W0UC/VAH_FINAL-CAMPUS-MASTER-PLAN_2022_0316-2.jpg Campuses https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1721077787282-U8BM6CEHNJ2U5VVNTXOA/2118_MCCC%2BENTRY%2BPLAZA%2BPERSPECTIVE-2022_0321_Page_3.jpg Campuses https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1761852463285-0Z7E0EAULG1Y3IHO78VG/2025SCH10-059_low.jpg Campuses - ANGEL PARK & MAGICAL GARDEN @ THE VILLAGE OF ARTS & HUMANITIES | Philadelphia PA Founded in 1986, The Village of Arts & Humanities (the Village) is a community-based nonprofit in North Philadelphia dedicated to supporting youth and their families through free arts and cultural programming that encourages positive self-expression, revitalizes community and preserves black heritage. In the past four decades, the Village has grown into an eclectic campus of more than 15 art parks, studio buildings and numerous rehabilitated homes for local artists. Their urban campus in the Fairhill-Hartranft neighborhood serves as a critical hub for the community to come together, to learn and to bond in a historically marginalized area of the City. In 2021, SALT Design Studio was commissioned to create a Campus Master Plan for the Village, which involved assessment of existing tree canopy and sculptural mosaic walls, development of new pathways, wayfinding strategies, and rehabilitation and improvement plans for five art parks with a broad range of programming goals. Through a series of robust engagement sessions, SALT learned about The Village history, culture and relationships with neighbors. Based on the powerful stories heard during engagement, SALT developed a “Village Loop” as the central feature which integrates pedestrian circulation, greening, storytelling, art and programming. As a branded visual thread, the Village Loop unites the varying open spaces and buildings into a cohesive and accessible campus. Fundamental to the Master Plan is a flexible ‘kit of parts’ to guide The Village through implementation efforts in a cost-effective, phased process as funding becomes available. Phase 1 improvements for Angel Park and Magical Garden combines two formerly separated spaces into one cohesive, multi-purpose public space. New perennial plantings frame and compliment existing murals and sculptures, colorful new seating encourages gathering, and chess tables, log climbers, and berms create opportunities for creative exploration and all-ages play. Collaborator: Apiary Studio Status: Construction Completed August 2023 Photography: © Sahar Coston-Hardy / Esto https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1666985555804-7Z0BL79D8EFIFHN81713/Photo+Oct+17+2022%2C+2+00+57+PM.jpg Campuses - CAMPHILL SOLTANE MEMORIAL GARDEN EXPANSION | Glenmoore PA Camphill Soltane, an organization dedicated to supporting and providing employment and volunteer opportunities to adults with intellectual disabilities, is located on a pastoral 52-acres in Chester County. SALT DESIGN STUDIO developed a Master Plan for a section of the campus, and then designed an extension of their Memorial Garden. The first phase of construction created a new walking loop of porous rubber surfacing, curved wood benches, a native meadow featuring a mix of cool and warm season grasses interspersed with flowering perennials, and installation of five custom ceramic bells and locally sourced boulders that pay tribute to those who have passed away. Status: Construction Completed October 2022 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1602695097180-9GGOG7JHBLN818WVSJFQ/Photo+Sep+11%2C+10+32+59+AM.jpg Campuses - WILSON HALL PERFORMING ARTS COMMON, ROWAN UNIVERSITY | Glassboro NJ Winner: 2025 Honor Award for Site Design from NJ Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects Winner: 2024 Excellence in Landscape Architecture Merit Award for General Design from Society for College & University Planning (SCUP) Rowan University commissioned SALT DESIGN STUDIO to design the second phase of their award-winning project, Crossroads at Robinson Green. Focused on performance, gathering and connection, Phase 2 of this project transforms Wilson Hall and the College of Performing Arts with two new outdoor amphitheaters, lush native landscapes and a host of amenities. New pedestrian circulation seamlessly connects Crossroads to Wilson Hall -- which formerly was a vast expanse of concrete with no shade, minimal seating, and no programming. Sized to accommodate substantial events and ceremonies, the large amphitheater hosts formal music, dance and theater acts, while the smaller ‘Green Box’ amphitheater tucked into the hillside caters to more intimate performances. Now called the Wilson Performing Arts Common, this rehabilitated Quad also creates a multitude of green gathering areas for students and staff, adding both social and ecological value to the campus. Bioswales capture runoff from paved areas, boosting vital habitat and subtly recalling the area’s agricultural history through swaths of native meadows. Two vehicular roads were converted into large-scale pedestrian promenades flanked with shade trees, improving safety for campus visitors and sending the message that spaces for people take priority over spaces for cars. Collaborators: Egdewater Design LLC, Marathon Engineering Status: Construction Completed April 2019 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1678479494483-PLVC2UA9G5CC5G317JDP/1813_WHG-RENDERED-PLAN_2018_0821.jpg Campuses - WEST HOUSE GARDEN at SWARTHMORE COLLEGE | Swarthmore PA Swarthmore College commissioned SALT DESIGN STUDIO to redesign the garden at West House, home of the Vice President for College Advancement. The West House garden is adjacent to SALT’s project at the newly-constructed Whittier Hall. The garden concept provides privacy for the family, creates a lush backdrop to Whittier Hall, and integrates the existing garden remnants into a new contemporary design. The plan includes a variety of native trees, shrubs, and perennials drawn from the native ecology of nearby Crum Woods. The elegant palette of white flowering plants compliments the facade of the Whittier Building and enhances the diversity of species and cultivars in Scott Arboretum. The yard’s open lawn has been reshaped to facilitate outdoor entertaining and large events. Status: Construction Completed October 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1504620053424-ZJ7R1GAW2HTR326FGCG9/Uniatowski071717-8568b-small.jpg Campuses - WHITTIER HALL at SWARTHMORE COLLEGE | Swarthmore PA Swarthmore College commissioned SALT DESIGN STUDIO to design the landscape surrounding its new arts and sciences facility at Whittier Hall. Home to the renowned Scott Arboretum—spanning over 300 acres of curated plant collections—Swarthmore is celebrated for its deep commitment to sustainability and environmental education. SALT proposed a new plaza, path system and campus garden to accompany the new academic building. The courtyard design reflects the architectural geometry of the new building through structured bands of planting, forming a richly textured and intimate space for gathering and reflection. A sophisticated plant palette of cool blues and greens, punctuated by bursts of chartreuse and gold, complements the building materials and offers year-round visual interest. The courtyard also serves as a dynamic outdoor gallery, offering students a flexible venue to display artwork in a living, evolving landscape. Collaborators: JacobsWyper Architects Status: Construction Completed June 2017 Photography: Charles Uniatowski https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1510946012414-WYJ2I5RH6BB6TLJH2HTY/2017AV32.434-small.jpg Campuses - CORPORATE MUSEUM | New Brunswick NJ SALT DESIGN STUDIO designed a plaza and landscape for a museum, located at the corporate headquarters in New Brunswick NJ. As part of a larger renovation effort, the project included transforming a former asphalt vehicular turnaround into a vibrant public plaza for gathering, reflection, and events. SALT’s design concept weaves together the company’s history, materiality, and culture into a cohesive, tactile landscape—a contemporary tapestry that connects two buildings from different eras. A dynamic composition of paving and planting frames the museum experience, guiding visitors through a sequence of visual contrasts. The planting palette features a rich mix of ornamental grasses, perennials, and groundcovers, creating a textured, seasonally evolving landscape. Integrated granite seat walls offer moments of pause, introducing vertical elements and providing comfortable spots for employees and visitors alike. Collaborators: JacobsWyper Architects, SCE Engineering Status: Construction Completed September 2016 Photography: Albert Esto https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1752873516001-3LTHFYQJ89UYWX7J8MCS/CUICAR+TN1+Plaza+Project+Photography+8.jpg Campuses - INTERNATIONAL CENTER FOR AUTOMOTIVE RESEARCH at CLEMSON UNIVERSITY | Greenville SC Winner: 2014 Honor Award for Design from Tri-State (NC, SC, GA) Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects Winner: 2009 Special Citation for Design from the American Institute of Architects The Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (ICAR) is housed in seven distinctive buildings on a 30-acre campus located in the Piedmont region of South Carolina. SALT DESIGN STUDIO was commissioned to design and consult on establishment and management of a 7-acre native meadow, as well as building landscapes, for this new satellite campus. During design, SALT refined the overall approach for the ICAR landscape to create a more robust ecological framework for the University grounds. Instead of installing acres of traditional turf grass on this new campus, ICAR chose to manage its land and stormwater through a more sustainable strategy. Native meadows feature large swaths of grass-dominant upland areas, colorful lowlands and species-rich diverse, wet meadows. Due to the naturally steep topography on the site, a trio of stormwater management basins were created to capture, treat and infiltrate stormwater. Creating this canvas of meadows, instead of lawn, has minimized daily maintenance for ICAR operations, re-introduced wildlife habitats with a palette of indigenous wildflowers and grasses, and serves as a model for making sustainable college campuses. CU-ICAR achieved LEED-NC Gold Certification Collaborators: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Status: Construction Completed 2008 Photos courtesy of Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. https://www.saltdesignstudio.com/libraries daily 0.75 2026-02-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1770916445605-QWUIJ3KUJOZUT6X2QSYH/2025SCH36-007r.jpg Libraries - BLANCHE A. NIXON/COBBS CREEK LIBRARY | Philadelphia PA The Blanche A. Nixon/Cobbs Creek branch of the Philadelphia Free Library sits on a one-acre triangular site, bounded by two major vehicular thoroughfares, Cobbs Creek Parkway and Baltimore Avenue. Built in 1925, this library was one of the last constructed as part of Andrew Carnegie’s library initiative. SALT was commissioned by the City of Philadelphia and the Rebuild program to redesign the site for accessible circulation and access to this historic building, develop playful learning opportunities in the landscape, and provide a suite of site amenities, including benches, bike racks, signage, and lighting. During community engagement, our team learned that Blanche Nixon was a beloved and prominent neighborhood figure who advocated for social justice and non-violent means for resolving disputes. Residents wanted her legacy to be memorialized on this site through the design and through public art. The resulting site plan that SALT developed capitalized on the gracious front entry of the building to create an inclusive, accessible, and social landscape for children and adults. Improvements are intended to foster a multi-generational, inviting, and safe environment around this important community resource. Client: City of Philadelphia, Rebuild Status: Construction Completed 2025 Collaborators: DIGroupArchitecture, Hunt Engineering, The Roz Group Photography: © Sahar Coston-Hardy / Esto https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1770925583392-6B0SUNW9IPUDZ5N3WRG9/PWL_website1.jpg Libraries - PENN WYNNE LIBRARY COMMUNITY READING GARDEN | Wynnewood PA SALT DESIGN STUDIO was commissioned by the Penn Wynne Library (PWL) to develop a site Master Plan and subsequently, a new Reading Garden that reimagines their outdoor landscape for outdoor programming, nature play and biodiversity. SALT worked with PWL to gather community feedback from children and adults about their desires for the library’s outdoor space. The resulting plan creates a new accessible walkway, myriad places for reading and reflection, and includes spaces for hands-on outdoor learning. A new story circle framed with native flowering trees and shrubs provides gathering for community, while a new Hügelkultur garden will actively demonstrate the permaculture technique of using decaying wood to feed plants and create soil. Native plants that provide habitat for threatened migrating monarch butterflies and local pollinators are planted on top of the Hügelkultur gardens. Client: Penn Wynne Library Association Status: Construction Underway 2026 https://www.saltdesignstudio.com/sara-pevaroff-schuh daily 0.75 2023-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/4eead1f9-36fa-4afc-a453-9261a1804811/_L5A6939.JPG Profile - Sara Pevaroff Schuh https://www.saltdesignstudio.com/katrina-rogus daily 0.75 2024-10-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/aef6e233-6d84-457b-8681-dc65a5fd9517/_L5A6986.JPG Katrina Rogus https://www.saltdesignstudio.com/parks-and-trails daily 0.75 2025-10-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/88cb79fb-7b0c-45b3-9bbe-457dd6537e16/BikeTrail_PS_small.jpg PARKS & TRAILS - Make it stand out SOLEBURY GREEN MASTER PLAN https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/4d78f8b9-af2a-4a21-bb2b-295a602b2637/Photo+Jul+31+2024%2C+4+47+07+PM.jpg PARKS & TRAILS - Make it stand out ATGLEN BOROUGH HALL PARK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/7370fbaa-3c3e-4982-ade0-d6194af33569/00_TITLE+-+smaller.jpg PARKS & TRAILS - Make it stand out HOPE PARK VISION PLAN https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/28335183-0f3c-4500-9a55-80801a483c34/2022SCH02-086.jpg PARKS & TRAILS McMICHAEL PARK NATURE PLAYSPACE https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/c0c1ec1f-3959-4a2a-85e6-42e1e510c338/MAIN+STREET+perspective.jpg PARKS & TRAILS - Make it stand out ATGLEN 4PARKS MASTER PLAN https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1611590451456-JEXBV1AYH88F6OOTL0EF/WYNNEFIELD-176.jpg PARKS & TRAILS HANCOCK PLAYGROUND https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1605822255136-78I4MBVHMQS9LYEI86ZD/TUSTIN.jpg PARKS & TRAILS - Make it stand out TUSTIN RECREATION CENTER MASTER PLAN https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1605883283158-T39QCO5L1AHOH6CH3KDS/BIRDSEYE-RENDERING_draft_2018_1109.jpg PARKS & TRAILS - Make it stand out BARMOUTH TRAILHEAD AT THE CYNWYD HERITAGE TRAIL https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1605903661107-YH7Z5TSH9RVZC2V01F0H/Bala%2BPocket%2BPark.jpg PARKS & TRAILS - Make it stand out BALA AVENUE POCKET PARK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1605821772605-0SMXNFX1YSPV6UR135PD/GORGAS%2BPARK.jpg PARKS & TRAILS - Make it stand out GORGAS PARK STORMWATER MASTER PLAN https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/40e91d0d-4e33-413f-8e1d-2df5477d624e/PA062372.jpg PARKS & TRAILS - Make it stand out JACK’S MARINA WETLAND RESTORATION https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1605814328384-8VF27LEW84D0T00MR4WY/06_Harrison-%252BBoy%252Bby%252BSand%252Bweb.jpg PARKS & TRAILS HARRISON STREET PARK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/0bd4d0ac-faa6-4111-b763-334b3f56fde6/linwood-muhly+grass_small.jpg PARKS & TRAILS - Make it stand out LINWOOD PARK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1605821434887-0SXSFV4DXN09HCNSXL7N/COXE%2BPARK.jpg PARKS & TRAILS - Make it stand out COXE PARK https://www.saltdesignstudio.com/campus daily 0.75 2025-10-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/7d7fa1d7-987f-41f3-9fb8-9b43554c5593/2025SCH10-018_low.jpg CAMPUS - Make it stand out ANGEL PARK & MAGICAL GARDEN AT THE VILLAGE OF ARTS & HUMANITIES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/fbd5f399-c0c8-4181-ab3f-da3af91cf9a2/Photo+Oct+17+2022%2C+2+00+57+PM.jpg CAMPUS - Make it stand out MEMORIAL GARDEN EXPANSION AT CAMPHILL SOLTANE https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1605898800215-QJDAHI6A1YV1GK3ZZXPW/Photo%2BApr%2B30%252C%2B2%2B40%2B11%2BPM%2BGRASS%2B1.jpg CAMPUS WILSON PERFORMING ARTS COMMON AT ROWAN UNIVERSITY https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/02585277-d645-4a8a-8eb9-cb67b5ea4154/Photo+May+16%2C+9+32+43+AM.jpg CAMPUS WEST HOUSE GARDEN AT SWARTHMORE COLLEGE https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/8199161f-c185-401e-b58e-1ce3673bb192/Photo+Sep+28%2C+10+22+27+AM.jpg CAMPUS INDEPENDENCE VISITOR CENTER https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1605821042201-PRC76ILY0S46D73C6F5O/SWARTHMORE%2BCOLLEGE.jpg CAMPUS WHITTIER HALL AT SWARTHMORE COLLEGE https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1605883461155-E2U45XOG442M97AV46XK/J%26J.jpg CAMPUS - Make it stand out CORPORATE MUSEUM https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1605820610524-66F0DB5CBKLWYQKV2MXG/ROWN%2BCROSSROADS.jpg CAMPUS CROSSROADS AT ROBINSON GREEN AT ROWAN UNIVERSITY https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/1605820580697-F9EVUBPV17EAYIXTB8YA/CLEMSON.jpg CAMPUS INTERNATIONAL CENTER FOR AUTOMOTIVE RESEARCH (ICAR) AT CLEMSON UNIVERSITY https://www.saltdesignstudio.com/le-cindy-xu daily 0.75 2025-05-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/5fe43e15-335e-4bb7-a95a-8deaef2e1dd7/_L5A6829.JPG Le (Cindy) Xu https://www.saltdesignstudio.com/schoolyards daily 0.75 2025-11-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/d0433bb9-f46e-4e15-bd21-61975c27141d/Coppin_EyeLevel.jpg SCHOOLYARDS - Make it stand out FANNY JACKSON COPPIN SCHOOLYARD MASTER PLAN https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5703fcfdb6aa608b20662a29/c4dca2bc-63da-4567-a5c3-a92c86eec7a5/Photo+Aug+22+2024%2C+11+21+30+AM.jpg SCHOOLYARDS - Make it stand out WILLIAM H. 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