Landscape architecture firm Lappas + Havener to design pedestrian mall in downtown Raleigh, N.C.

DURHAM, N.C. - Sept. 9, 2013 - PRLog -- The landscape architecture firm Lappas + Havener has been hired by the City of Raleigh, N.C., to re-design two pedestrian malls to make them more engaging for downtown workers and patrons.

The firm has been tasked with “place making” environments around the city’s Exchange and Market plazas to boost pedestrian traffic, and to encourage local restaurants and retail shops to extend their enterprises into the outdoors.

Lappas + Havener also will apply its landscape architecture expertise at Exchange and Market plazas to help the city accommodate large crowds, mitigate storm water runoff, provide clear views into and across the plazas, and integrate art for the public to enjoy.

“Our firm has a strong history of creating functional and aesthetically pleasing connections within the urban fabric for the benefit of the people who use it,’ said Walt Havener, president. “We are excited about creating a distinctive and sustainable urban environment that will attract visitors and encourage them to take full advantage of what the City of Raleigh has to offer.”

Work will occur at Exchange Plaza and Market Plaza, located on the north and south sides, respectively, of 227 Fayetteville St. in downtown Raleigh. Each site is bound by Wilmington Street on the east and Fayetteville Street on the west. Market Plaza is a contributing site to the Fayetteville Street National Historic District.

About Lappas + Havener

Lappas + Havener, PA, was founded in 1993 by Bob Lappas and Walt Havener in Durham, N.C. Having previously practiced in large architecture and multi-discipline firms, the founders used their early experiences to shape the type of landscape architecture practiced at LHPA today.

Design is the key focus of the firm. By providing architectural site design, urban design, community and recreational planning, and comprehensive master planning for cultural institutions – as well as corporate, university and municipal clients – Lappas + Havener has developed a record of award-winning projects.

Lappas + Havener is known for iconic landscape design throughout the Southeast, including the North Carolina Museum of Art’s Sculpture Gardens and Art Park. To see these and other examples of the firm’s place-making talents, visit Lappas + Havener online.