Gould Court Greenway
Project Overview
Gould Court, located adjacent to Mitchell’s Ice Cream headquarters on West 25th Street in Ohio City, underwent a remarkable transformation from a small, overlooked side street into a vibrant public green space. This project, led by SOS in collaboration with Land Studio, was sponsored by Greenspace and Citizens Bank, aiming to enhance the neighborhood with a pedestrian-friendly environment while incorporating sustainable design elements. The newly revitalized Gould Court now serves as a gateway to the Ohio City Market District, offering both beauty and functionality to visitors and the surrounding community.
The Challenge
Originally a simple connector street between West 25th and a public parking lot, Gould Court had little character or purpose beyond vehicular access. However, with the development of Mitchell’s Ice Cream’s headquarters and shop in a historic theater building, the opportunity arose to reimagine the space. The challenge was twofold: how to turn this small, underutilized street into a pedestrian-friendly public greenway, and how to integrate sustainable elements that would reflect Mitchell’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
The project needed to balance aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability, all while serving the needs of Mitchell’s Ice Cream, adjacent businesses like Soho Kitchen and Bar, and the wider neighborhood community.
The SOS Solution: A Greenway of Art and Sustainability
At the heart of the Gould Court Greenway project was the desire to create a public space that not only redefined the street but also added a unique aesthetic through public art and green design. Working with a public sculpture artist, SOS helped bring the vision to life by incorporating a series of sculptures that were not just decorative but served a functional, sustainable purpose.
The highlight of the design is a large sculpture that captures rainwater from the rooftop of Mitchell’s Ice Cream. The rainwater is collected and channeled into an underground cistern, where it is stored, treated, and reused within the building’s infrastructure for flushing toilets—showcasing an innovative approach to sustainability. This rainwater system is a public expression of Mitchell’s eco-friendly practices and integrates seamlessly with the artistic design of the space.
In addition to the sculptures, SOS incorporated soft landscaping that enhances the natural beauty of the greenway, creating a welcoming pedestrian environment. The combination of public art, greenery, and sustainable design transforms Gould Court into more than just a passageway—it becomes a neighborhood landmark and a symbol of Ohio City’s ongoing urban revitalization.
The Impact: A Gateway for the Community
The revitalization of Gould Court has made it a gateway to the Ohio City Market District, bringing life to an area that was previously dominated by vehicular traffic. By vacating the street and turning it into a public green space, SOS and Mitchell’s Ice Cream have given the community a place to gather, relax, and enjoy the art and nature around them. The sculptures not only elevate the aesthetic of the space but also highlight Mitchell’s commitment to sustainability, making the greenway a point of pride for the neighborhood.
For Mitchell’s Ice Cream and neighboring businesses, the project has created an enhanced pedestrian experience that draws in both locals and visitors, further integrating the area into the vibrant Ohio City community. The use of sustainable rainwater practices has also positioned Mitchell’s as a leader in environmental responsibility, setting a benchmark for future urban development in the area.
Why SOS?
SOS was excited to bring together art, sustainability, and community in a way that aligned with both Mitchell’s vision and Ohio City’s broader goals for urban revitalization. Our collaborative approach ensured that every element of the Gould Court Greenway project—from the sculptures to the rainwater system—was thoughtfully designed to serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. The result is a beautiful, sustainable public space that enriches the community and reflects the values of the businesses and people who call Ohio City home.
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