Landscaping case study of Santa Monica, USA. It features a native and locally-appropriate sustainable plant palette that changes subtly with the seasons.
The design was shaped by an extensive community process and is inspired by the Southern California arroyo landscape, where topographic washes and ravines once defined the site
Tongva Park is divided into 4 main sections: Observation Hill, Discovery Hill, Garden Hill, and Gathering Hill.
It features a native and locally-appropriate sustainable plant palette that changes subtly with the seasons.
1. Introduction
Santa Monica, USA
Completed in 2013
Observation Hill, Discovery Hill,
Garden Hill, and Gathering Hill.
It features a native and locally-
appropriate sustainable plant palette
that changes subtly with the seasons.
The design was shaped by an
extensive community process and is
inspired by the Southern California
arroyo landscape, where topographic
washes and ravines once defined the
site
Tongva Park is divided into 4 main
sections: Observation Hill, Discovery
Hill, Garden Hill, and Gathering Hill.
It features a native and locally-
appropriate sustainable plant palette
that changes subtly with the seasons.
2. The Design
Swooping pathways and walks openly connect the
western neighborhoods to the beach, ocean, and
landmark pier.
The park is now a much-beloved green space for the
community and visitors alike, offering shade, greenery,
strolling pathways, amenity, and space for
programming and events.
Tongva Park transformed a derelict, asphalt lot into a
lush landscape of rolling hills, swales, Mediterranean
meadow gardens, water features, viewing pavilions,
public restrooms, and active urban spaces for the City
of Santa Monica.
Tongva Park is transformed into significant new green
space, adding 30% shade from new trees, 70%
permeable surface for stormwater retention, over 400
species of plants, and a variety of park amenities for a
diverse community to enjoy.
The park has around 170 different species of drought-
tolerant plants, which highlight the three main
ecologies found in California.
Since its opening in 2013, it has received over 20 design
awards, most notably the ASLA Honor Award for Design
and Finalist for the ULI Global Award of Excellence for
Urban Open Space.
