First opened in 1973, the Belvedere has long been a cherished spot but suffered from years of neglect. This transformation of Heatherwick Studio promises to breathe new life into a site the size of four American football pitches, strengthening its connection to the Ohio River and providing the city with a natural spot for the community and visitors to gather and relax.
“The Belvedere is 50 years old and showing signs of age. Do we continue to let it crack and crumble, or do we do something new, big, and bold?”
Craig Greenberg, Louisville Mayor.
Revitalization of the Belvedere by Heatherwick studio. Rendering by Heatherwick studio.
Located between 4th and 6th streets in the heart of downtown Louisville, the Belvedere now has a chance to reclaim its place as one of the city’s most prominent public spaces.
Early concept renders for the site feature a striking pavilion with a flowing, ribbon-like form, filled with lush green spaces and pedestrian-friendly pathways that seamlessly weave the city’s core into the waterfront. More than just a face-lift, the project aims to create an inviting, multi-use place where residents and visitors can come together for recreation, cultural events or simply to take a break by the river.
Input from the Louisville community has played a vital role in development of the vision, with three public meetings held in January to gather insights and ideas.
Revitalization of the Belvedere by Heatherwick studio. Rendering by Heatherwick studio.
"Belvedere has an incredible potential to become a new green ‘living room’ for Louisville and its people. Our design will stitch together the Ohio riverfront and connect it to the expansive parks beyond".
"We've been listening to the community and hear a huge appetite for something powerful, exciting and new to happen".
Stuart Wood, Executive Partner and Group Leader at Heatherwick Studio.
The project remains in the design phase, with construction expected to begin in 2026. Once completed, it will mark Heatherwick studio’s first endeavour in Kentucky, joining a portfolio of acclaimed projects in the US including two Google Campuses in California, Little Island Park and Lantern House in New York City, and the new Davidson Park in Milwaukee.
