Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

The Lawn on D

Boston

Massachusetts

USA

Contributed by 
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
August 13, 2015
December 22, 2017

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

Access & Linkages

Comfort & Image

Uses & Activities

Sociability

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

The Lawn on D, an outdoor event space in Boston’s Innovation District, reflects the unique and changing character of the surrounding neighborhood. The 2.7-acre public space is owned and operated by the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA), who will eventually expand their facilities and programming into the space permanently. In the meantime they are using LQC strategies to test possible interventions that will facilitate community engagement and nurture local arts.

The initial installation on the Lawn opened in August 2014 and consisted of colorful seating, lounge chairs, picnic tables, public art exhibits, a bar under a large white tent, games such as bocce and ping pong and free WiFi access. The space was heavily programmed with performances, live music, food trucks and frisbee tournaments. In the winter months, The Lawn on D hosted a series of seasonal events and amenities such as a giant maze made out of ice blocks, organized snowball fights, and food trucks serving hot chocolate. There was even a two-story snow hill on which skiers and snowboarders could perform tricks. Since its unveiling, the space has become a center for cultural events and socializing, and because it is equipped with various amenities and a range of programing including childrens activities, sports, places for relaxation, a bar and performances, the space meets the needs of diverse Bostonians. 

Related Links & Sources

Photo credits, from left: Lawn on D via Facebook, Lawn on D via Facebook, Lawn on D via Facebook, Lawn on D via Facebook, Lawn on D via Facebook, Lawn on D via Facebook

Follow The Lawn on D

Website: lawnond.com

Facebook: facebook.com/thelawnonD

Twitter: @lawnond

The Lawn on D
Winter-friendly programming is key to the lawn's success
The Lawn on D
The ice maze
The Lawn on D
Rotating installations add excitement to the space
The Lawn on D
Performances activate the Lawn on D
The Lawn on D
A great place for conversation
The Lawn on D
The Lawn on D
The Lawn on D

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

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