Atlanta Design Festival (2023)
Atlanta played host to the Atlanta Design Festival, a global celebration of creativity that unfolded from October 14 to October 22, 2023. The City of Atlanta Department of City Planning (DCP) took center stage, orchestrating two insightful tours and contributing to a thought-provoking panel discussion during the event.
Showcasing Atlanta's Design Brilliance
Ranked among the top 50 design festivals globally by Dezeen, the Atlanta Design Festival provided a unique platform for creative leaders and organizations to converge and showcase Atlanta as a city of innovation in the world of design. Under the banner of MA! Design is Human, the festival brought together architects, product designers, tech enthusiasts, marketers, and more to engage, experience, and enrich Atlanta's cultural and creative communities.
Collier Heights: A Glimpse into Atlanta's Past
One of the highlights of DCP's participation was the tour of Collier Heights, a suburban gem in the postwar South that became a haven for Black Atlantans. Dr. Juanita and Mr. Harold Morton, our knowledgeable tour guides, led a group of 22 participants through the neighborhood's historical homes, each a testament to the architectural preferences of its influential residents.
The shuttle tour ventured through local streets, providing a unique opportunity to explore migration patterns within Atlanta. The journey was more than a physical one; it was a historical exploration culminating in light refreshments at the Berean Seventh-day Adventist Church. Here, attendees had the chance to hear firsthand from residents, gaining insights into the neighborhood's evolution over time.
South Downtown: Breathing New Life into History
The second tour, guided by April Stammel, former Senior Vice-President of @SouthDwntn, explored the potential of South Downtown Atlanta. An assemblage of over 50 buildings and six acres of surface parking, the neighborhood holds a vision of revitalization. Historic Hotel Row, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcased its century-old facades, and preserved architectural features. The tour started on Mitchell Street, SW and weaved through several blocks, concluding with a reception at the former location of Newport, LLC.
Housing Design for All: A Thoughtful Dialogue
The DCP also played a pivotal role during the Creative Future Conference, hosting a panel discussion titled Housing Design for All. Featuring esteemed speakers Jim Irwin, Joel Dixon, and Jacob Vallo, moderated by Savannah Sicurella of the Atlanta Business Chronicle, the panel delved into the challenges and opportunities of creating affordable, accessible, and sustainable housing for all Atlantans. It was an insightful exploration of innovative design solutions that can reshape our communities to be more inclusive and sustainable.
The City of Atlanta Department of City Planning left an indelible mark on the city's design landscape. Through engaging tours and a thought-provoking panel, DCP showcased Atlanta's rich history, architectural diversity, and commitment to creating a future that is inclusive, sustainable, and creatively inspiring.
The success of these events underscores Atlanta's position as an innovator of ideas, and the DCP's role in shaping the city's design narrative for years to come.
Many thanks go to…
Elaine DeLeo and Bernard McCoy, the co-founders of the event and dedicated organizers who ensured a seamless execution of the Atlanta Design Festival, curating an experience that captivated participants and celebrated the city's creative brilliance.
Dr. Juanita and Mr. Harold Morton, our knowledgeable and passionate tour guides of the Collier Heights neighborhood.
April Stammel, Senior Vice-President of @SouthDwntn, who guided participants through the revitalization vision of South Downtown, offering a unique perspective on the historic buildings that define the area.
Esteemed speakers Jim Irwin, Joel Dixon, and Jacob Vallo, alongside the insightful moderation of Savannah Sicurella of the Atlanta Business Chronicle.