As part of visionary revitalization strategy, the City of Flowery Branch embarked on a series of projects aimed at enhancing walkability, boosting citizen engagement, and elevating the vibrancy of the downtown district. Central to this initiative was a focus on celebrating local agriculture and supporting regional artisans, positioning Flowery Branch as a cherished destination for both residents and visitors.
Photographer: Scott Wang Photography, Inc.
Client
City of Flowery Branch
Location
Flowery Branch, Georgia
Total Project Cost
$4.25 M
Project Type
Streetscapes
Completed
2022
Size
30,000 sq. ft.
Services
Architecture, Civil/Site Engineering, Landscape Architecture, Structural Engineering, Planning
To bring this vision to life, CPL partnered with the city to create design concepts that honor Flowery Branch’s agrarian roots while meeting the needs of a modern, interconnected community. At the heart of this revitalization is the redesigned Market Alley, conceived as a central pedestrian passageway that seamlessly connects visitors with downtown’s historic architecture, unique storefronts, and inviting green spaces
Paved in brick to evoke the city’s historical charm, the alley is further enhanced by lush landscaping and furnished with tables and chairs. This thoughtfully crafted space creates a warm and welcoming environment, encouraging social engagement among patrons, artisans, and local businesses.
The central corridor leads to the open-air Market Pavilion, a signature architectural structure crafted from wood to complement its surroundings while offering essential amenities. Equipped with shade, lighting, and ceiling fans, the pavilion provides a comfortable and inviting space for farmers, vendors, and artisans to showcase their goods year-round. Its design thoughtfully balances functionality with a communal spirit, reinforcing Flowery Branch’s commitment to supporting local commerce within a space that feels both fresh and timeless.
The city’s revitalization effort also includes the development of a pocket park on Pine Street, expanding public green space within the downtown core.
Located adjacent to a popular restaurant, this versatile park offers a scenic waiting area and also doubles as an event venue, enhancing the city’s capacity for community gatherings, outdoor experiences, and small public events. This adaptive space captures the flexibility that modern public spaces demand, enhancing the overall downtown experience for residents and visitors.
Further enhancing Flowery Branch’s public spaces, the revitalization transformed an underutilized corner parcel into a unique city park and arboriculture garden. Designed to showcase native plants and local flora, this area includes an outdoor amphitheater intended for educational and recreational activities. The use of native landscaping not only fosters biodiversity but also encourages community engagement with the natural environment, underscoring the city’s commitment to sustainable landscape practices.
The revitalized Flowery Branch Farmers Market serves as a tribute to the region’s agricultural roots and stands as a centerpiece of the project, paying homage to local farming heritage within a modernized setting. By blending historical context with forward-thinking design, the revitalization of the market and surrounding areas celebrates the city’s identity while fostering new opportunities for connection, commerce, and cultural exchange.
