Davidson Park is a radical transformation of an underutilized concrete parking lot serving Harley-Davidson's headquarters in Milwaukee into a soulful, civic gathering space. The mission of the project was to turn the joyless, utilitarian surface into an exciting community space where people can connect with nature, enjoy each other’s company, and play.
At the core of the park is "The Hub," a 260-feet-wide sunken multi-use events space with tiered seating surrounded by lush greenery. The circular, amphitheater layout features motorcycle driveways, parking bays, sidewalks, planting, timber seats, and 360-degree viewpoints. One direction offers views of Harley-Davidson’s historic buildings, while the other showcases the park's diverse gathering, market, reflection, and play areas framed with indigenous plantings.
Sustainability is a core element, with features designed to repair the landscape and minimize stormwater impacts, celebrating the land's heritage. In collaboration with the Forest County Potawatomi, the park incorporates sacred plantings. Locally sourced materials include varied bricks, natural timber seats, wood stairs, and weathered steel, creating a warm patina. Detail throughout is intentional, including motorcycle ‘bays’ which are laid in a unique pattern, and reflecting local culture and heritage, providing a moment of surprise to visitors.
Heatherwick Studio led the conceptual design, collaborating with local firm HGA for design, landscape, and engineering, with Greenfire Management Services ensuring the project aligns with Harley-Davidson's community-focused values. The park's design involved extensive community engagement, emphasizing accessibility and individual experience.
