Entwine Parklet at the Bagelshop

Project Statement

A parklet is a small-scale structure or public space that utilizes roadside parking spaces to indicate the size of one car could be designed for 20 pedestrians. Entwine is situated at The Bagelshop in Donelson and is leveraged by new public transit and new community spaces such as The Donelson Library. As Donelson and transit grows, the parklet and The Bagelshop positions itself as a place for the community to relax, eat, and fester relationships within the built environment and, ultimately, to connect to a greater Nashville. The design spurred from an organic line art mural painted on The Bagelshop’s walls that had similarities to transit pattern maps. Large organic moves drove the permanent furniture and seating forms while a series of layering (sandwiching in bagel terms) created a sense of protection and barrier to the streetscape. The parklet has become an identifier and placemaker within Donelson.

Framework for Design Excellence Narrative

The Entwine Parklet at the Bagelshop is greater than its physical footprint by serving as a catalyst for community connection and inclusive urban design. From the Framework for Design Excellence, the parklet exemplifies several design principles. The first principle addressed, Design for Equitable Communities, is embodied by reclaiming car dominated space for people. The design concept promotes walkability, accessibility, and social equity by addressing the human-scale, encouraging slower streets, and connecting diverse neighborhood fabrics through locating and siting. Regarding Design for Energy, the parklet is net-zero with zero reliance on fossil fuels. Preliminary design charrettes and site studies, maximized solar, wind, and precipitation data and activity. By designing a shade structure and a series of green zones, the interior of the parklet is significantly cooler on hot, summer days and during The Bagelshop’s working hours. The last design principle, Design for Integration, is addressed in the parklet’s reflection of local character through the mural, form-making, and materiality. By designing with the neighborhood in mind and for the neighborhood, Entwine acts as a thread, encouraging people to pause, interact, and feel a stronger sense of place.