The TMC Helix Park celebrates human and ecological resilience. Spanning 14.5 acres in downtown Houston, the Park transforms a multi-acre asphalt parking lot into a community hub that combines sustainability and healthy living. Designed to withstand a 500-year storm event, the project is conceived of as a living sponge that stores, filters, and repurposes rainwater, providing a public amenity for the entire watershed.
Houston’s average temperature has increased to 92°F with relative humidity typically ranging from 60 – 90%. To address these conditions 69,400 sf of shade canopies and 380,000 sf of cool permeable pavement provide climate conscious comfort. A variety of water features offer diverse experiences, from active streams and waterfalls to contemplative, reflection pools.
A focus on health and wellness shapes this large urban park with district wide mobility infrastructure, vibrant programming for active community gatherings, and contemplative water gardens for sustained health and well-being.
Bio Our studio is a collaborative think tank researching the science of human health and well-being. Our work brings people close to the natural world. As designers of restorative landscapes, we address some of the most pressing public health related issues through our research in human cognition bringing people closer to nature. Twenty years ago, we began with a focus on human centered design, striving to make our cities healthier. Today, our evidence based design work engages communities and landscapes across the spectrum, bringing restoration and wonder to the everyday experience.
Other prizes American Society of Landscape Architects Firm of the Year Award Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Museum National Design Award for Landscape Architecture ASLA National Design Medal Fast Company World's Most Innovative Companies Fast Co. World Changing Ideas Urban Design
