Heatherwick Studio has released its design for the overhaul of Belvedere, an underutilized civic space in downtown Louisville, Kentucky. Situated between the city’s commercial core and the Ohio River, the renewed plaza aims to function as a daily gathering spot for recreation, community events and riverfront views.

Originally opened in 1973, Belvedere was intended as a public retreat but gradually became disconnected from the waterfront and urban life. The new plan reimagines the roughly four-acre site as a green, flexible urban park with improved access, extensive planting and welcoming entrances designed to draw visitors throughout the day.

At the heart of the proposal is the Firefly Pavilion, a civic structure intended for both everyday use and larger cultural performances. The wider landscape incorporates a “Firefly Path,” winding through the park to encourage varied experiences.

Thomas Heatherwick, founder and design director, says: “For more than fifty years, the Belvedere has been a stage for public life in Louisville. But over time it’s become barren and disconnected from the energy of the city around it […] Our goal is for the newly reimagined Belvedere to reflect Louisville’s unique character, and bring people together again across generations, backgrounds and interests, and go on to become a place that local people proudly call their own.”

Executive partner Stuart Wood adds that the pavilion creates “an iconic new stage for the city – a flexible platform for culture, performance and community life,” while the park brings “glorious nature back into the heart of downtown.” He describes the Firefly Path as inspired by “the dynamic flight of Kentucky’s fireflies,” encouraging discovery within “a landscape that feels natural, informal and unmistakably rooted in Louisville.”

Developed with ongoing public consultation, the project is framed as an investment in the city’s social vitality. Construction is set to begin this autumn, with an anticipated opening in 2030.