An oft used and ideal local greenspace for community events, celebrations, and concerts, Tyler Park lacked the infrastructure to be a true performance venue. Partnering with the Olmsted Park Conservancy, Schmidt Associates designed an organic stage constructed of locally-sourced materials that respected and seamlessly integrated into Fredrick Law Olmsted’s historic landscape.
Rooted in Olmstedian principles, the stage was carefully located and oriented to preserve the park’s signature “egg” design, minimize site disturbance, and maintain the park’s existing use patterns. To address potential concerns about sound within the surrounding neighborhood, the team brought in an acoustician early in the design process. This collaborative effort ensured the stage’s placement maximized acoustic quality for performances while minimizing noise impact for nearby residents.
Designed for flexibility, the three-tiered stone stage accommodates small to medium size musical and theatrical performances. Natural stone retaining walls provide a sense of enclosure and house the essential electrical infrastructure to support lighting and sound requirements. Boulder outcroppings add playful elements and offer informal seating options for visitors. Enhanced parking area and ADA access improvements at the park’s we entrance were designed to accommodate increased traffic while maintaining the park’s charm. The result is a thoughtful, permanent performance venue that respects the park’s legacy, enhances its functionality, and demonstrates that nature and the performing arts are a perfect pairing.
