Local architecture and engineering firm designs Liberty Plaza, adjacent to Capitol Hill, for public and civic use.

Stevens & Wilkinson, a full-service commercial architecture, engineering and interior design firm based in Atlanta and Columbia, S.C., was selected by the Georgia Building Authority (GBA) and the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission (GSFIC) to recreate Liberty Plaza as a gathering place for celebrations, ceremonies and assemblies for both lawmakers and citizens. In conjunction with landscape architecture firm Hughes Good O’Leary Ryan (HGOR) and civil engineering firm Long Engineering, Stevens & Wilkinson provided full design services including the demolition of a parking deck, the creation of the plaza and an addition of strategic entryways to enhance connectivity.

“We are pleased to have been chosen to redesign this significant public and civic space, and look forward to joining the community in celebrating the official introduction of the site at the dedication ceremony,” said Bill Clark, AIA, LEED AP, president of Stevens & Wilkinson Atlanta.

According to the GBA, Liberty Plaza will become the major focal point for large and small groups holding public rallies and assemblages both during and between legislative sessions. In keeping with this vision, Stevens & Wilkinson designed Liberty Plaza’s entrances with large crowds in mind, and the plaza itself can hold more than 3,400 people.

Stevens & Wilkinson designed Liberty Plaza with safety and security in mind. The plaza can be secured with gates and fencing, and will be continuously monitored by surveillance cameras.

Upon demolishing the parking deck that formerly occupied the site of Liberty Plaza, Stevens & Wilkinson incorporated a recycling and reuse strategy. All steel from the former structure was recycled, and concrete was reused as backfill material.

“Our team of architects and engineers implemented smart design solutions to ensure the plaza is beautiful, sustainable and accessible for large numbers of citizens,” said Clark.

Liberty Plaza is strategically located within walking distance of public parking and Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) stations and bus stops. Stevens & Wilkinson and HGOR incorporated sidewalks, street trees an accessible ramp connecting to an overhead pedestrian bridge for increased walkability.

In order to promote Georgia’s rich history, the design team included installations of relocated public art. Georgia-harvested granite and a native Georgia plant palette were chosen for the design to promote the state’s natural resources and work in aesthetic concert with neighboring state government buildings.

About Stevens & Wilkinson: Founded in 1919, Stevens & Wilkinson is a full-service commercial architecture, engineering and interior design firm committed to providing clients with “Smart Design Solutions.” The firm’s combined design capabilities equate to projects executed with creative, innovative and holistic design solutions. www.stevens-wilkinson.com.