Spiezle’s PARK(ing) Day Design “Informative Reforestation” Showcased at DesignPhiladelphia

For nearly a decade, Spiezle has been a proud participant in Philadelphia’s PARK(ing) Day, a global event that transforms parking spaces into temporary parks and public spaces. This year, our installation, “Informative Reforestation,” was featured as part of the 2023 DesignPhiladelphia Festival, and we were thrilled to share our work with the community.

Our design was inspired by the City of Philadelphia’s Philly Tree Plan, which was released in 2023. As the city’s first-ever urban forest strategic plan, the Philly Tree Plan sets a 10-year strategy to grow, protect, and care for the city’s tree canopy. The plan aligns with Philadelphia’s goals for equity and sustainability, addressing the need to improve tree coverage across neighborhoods while ensuring a healthier urban environment for all residents.

In support of these goals, this year’s design concept was “Informative Reforestation” — a contemplative space that informs spectators of the importance of tree planting in the city of Philadelphia. The overhead canopy of hula hoops and yarn mimics the natural shading of a tree canopy. The hoops were mounted at varying heights to layer the canopy and produce a dynamic depth. The bamboo stalks represent tree trunks and provide a protective barrier from the active roadway. The design is meant to transport visitors from the concrete streets of Philadelphia to a serene, forested landscape, offering a moment of peace and reflection.

After a successful Park(ing) Day in September, Spiezle was invited to showcase our parklet during the DesignPhiladelphia Festival, which ran through October 13. This year marks the festival’s 20th anniversary, continuing its tradition of pushing designers and innovators to reimagine urban spaces where everyone can thrive. Our exhibit was hosted at the iconic Cherry Street Pier, a free-to-visit public space on the Delaware River waterfront, which has been transformed from an industrial pier into a vibrant urban hub.

We’d like to thank Philadelphia Park(ing) Day and DesignPhiladelphia for having us, and continuing the conversation about how thoughtful design can support sustainability efforts. We’re already looking forward to next year!