Attention to detail can have a profound impact toward formulating an image that sets the West Innovation District apart. The West Innovation District Plan is intended to establish a very definable geographic area unique from other business neighborhoods in Dublin. Smaller visual elements of all kinds should be used to evoke the general theme of technology and advancement and a contrast to the surrounding natural environment through materials and design.
First Impressions and Finding Your Way
Gateway locations provide the first visual cues for people travelling to the West Innovation District. Features and entry signs should be designed in a manner that coordinates with architecture and landscape themes by combining cutting-edge sign shapes and materials with striking landscaping within a naturalized backdrop. Larger integration of branding for the City of Dublin should be considered to denote the West Innovation District’s larger context, particularly considering efforts in the Bridge Street District as the other primary commercial bookend along the SR 161 corridor.
Employees and visitors should be able to comfortably navigate and find destinations within the West Innovation District. Implementation of unique street signs and wayfinding signs within the District should clearly and succinctly provide direction with the same level of character as major gateway signs. Private identification signs should utilize the same general design parameters and are encouraged to use materials and design that will reflect the innovative character of the area.
Highlighting the Public Realm
Visitors should clearly identify that the public realm and its greenways, parks and rights-of-way epitomize the West Innovation District’s defined character. Specifically, public art and streetscape elements within those spaces should be used to reinforce contemporary architectural style within the context of the natural landscape.
Public Art
Public art should be placed in key locations as a visual focal point that enhances awareness and serves as landmarks for the area. Art should be coordinated or programmed as part of capital projects and be emphasized along key arterials to reinforce gateway locations. Opportunities to coordinate with the Dublin Arts Council should be explored to commission art installations that are appropriately themed to the character of the West Innovation District.. Likewise, corporate art should also be highly encouraged to capitalize on public investments in the area in places like roundabouts and park space. Buildings visible from U.S. 33 should also be contemplated as opportunities for art through architectural expression. Architectural elements, sculpture and lighting should enhance the visual context.
Streetscape Elements
Objects within the public right-of-way can either reinforce a desired character or represent a lost opportunity. Elements ranging from benches, shelters, kiosks, trash cans, bus stop shelters, lighting and other components should enhance design and provide consistency. Streetscape elements should be programmed and implemented as part of park and roadway improvements. Private businesses should also be encouraged to use streetscape elements to further extend design character into private space. Consistent with the ideals of technology, advancement and contemporary design, the Metro 40 Collection from Landscape Forms provides a prototype that meets the innovative and contemporary character of the West Innovation District. Two versions of streetscape furniture (all metal and metal with wood) can be used to differentiate between public and private applications.
