Manhattan Square Park (Dr Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Park) Rochester, NY
Landslide

Marvels of Modernism: Manhattan Square Park

Manhattan Square PArk

A pioneer in the field of Modern landscape architecture, Lawrence Halprin designed and executed the plans for Manhattan Square Park as part of downtown Rochester’s urban renewal during the early 1970s.

The amphitheater plaza, space-frame, berm garden, and promenade—all elements of Halprin’s original plan— remain intact today. The park has received renewed attention due to recent renovations of the play area and skating rink. However, if such improvements are carried out without a true understanding of the park’s significant design, they could threaten its most unique elements. 

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