Transforming a driver-driven destination into a dynamic, pedestrian-friendly plaza.
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DETAILS

LocationEmeryville, California, United States of America
ClientCenterCal Properties, LLC
SizeThree blocks, including a one-acre plaza

The new owner of Bay Street brought on SWA to reimagine this three-block retail street within the 18-acre Downtown Emeryville retail district. The new plaza and enhanced streetscape create a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly community hub to attract visitors, restaurants, and upmarket tenants.

The redesign encompassed three street sections, each with tailored enhancement strategies. The southern portion converted a street into a plaza featuring distinct gathering spaces. The northern portion increased people’s space by adding a café and pick-up/drop-off parklets. The central portion extended the Emeryville Greenway from the City’s recent ped/bike bridge to and through Bay Street by slimming a street and connecting to the new plaza. The redesign adds street trees, ground plane vegetation, and colorful banners and furniture throughout Bay Street’s three blocks.

The plaza features a signature fire table surrounded by lounge furniture, food and beverage kiosks, and a lacy sculpture — the Temescal Drop –by HYBYCOZO. A small stage opposite the stairs to the refreshed dining terrace provides a venue for performances and events. The south garage portal and new grocery entrance are brought to life with a garden court featuring a colorful flowering centerpiece and seating. LED lighting technology enhances the plaza’s versatility, creating immersive color-changing environments that excite events and provide a dynamic backdrop for year-round activities.

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