Bramhall Square

Project Overview:

The neighbors of Bramhall Square, a small pocket park in Portland, Maine, believed this 3,400 SF, steeply-sloped parcel was not living up to its potential. So local and regional groups challenged area design professionals to submit ideas to re-envision Bramhall Square. The concept design creates outdoor “rooms” on three levels where multiple generations can walk or wait, observe or play.

Design Challenge:

Created by the confluence of three busy streets, Bramhall Square sits atop one of the highest hills in Portland, Maine and includes a 10-foot grade change across a small triangular parcel. The solution needed to be a community destination that is sustainable, accessible, durable, and affordable, while harmonizing with neighboring structures.

Creative Solution:

Bramhall Square’s sloped footprint inspired the design team to divide and conquer by creating a community park comprised of three tiers. This approach mitigates the square’s steep slope, making it accessible to people of all mobility levels. Grade changes are held in place by hybrid structures that combine retaining walls, tiered seating, and raised planting beds. These structures also serve to define spaces while providing ample pass-through area for walkers and bikers.

1 – Commuter Tier

The south end of Bramhall Square features a covered bus stop along Congress Street, a priority metro corridor. The shelter’s size, orientation, and translucent roof material were chosen to optimize daylight while offering shade and storm cover.

2 – Seating Tier

Bramhall Square’s central tier leverages the back side of the bus shelter and existing trees to create a shaded sitting area. Fixed bench seating is oriented to give visitors Bramhall Square’s best views, and a paved patio accommodates additional seating or activities.

3 – Play Tier

The design of Bramhall Square’s north end is comprised of a play area with tiered seating, whimsical climbing pods, and free-standing, touch-activated light bars. A retaining wall curves around the existing traffic light control box to provide more bench seating, raised garden beds, and a safety buffer against adjacent street traffic.

At night, the entire square is illuminated by ground-level up lights and inset lights, turning the bus shelter, plant life, seating, and climbing pods into softly lit sculptures.

The new Bramhall Square promises to inspire residents of all ages to gather together and enjoy the outdoors, to provide welcomed shelter to bus travelers, and to bring a smile to thousands of passers-by.