At HK Architects, we specialize in civic space design that brings communities together. From small neighborhood parks to large conference centers, the public spaces we design aim to facilitate community, connection, and a sense of belonging.

A digital rendering of the East Ridge community space.

East Ridge Town Center

Our latest project in East Ridge, Tennessee will transform a lot adjacent to the East Ridge Community Center, City Hall, and local library into a vibrant event and community space. The new enclosed pavilion space is close to the new splash pad, playground, and dog park and  will be the perfect public space to bring residents together for farmers markets, private and public events, conferences, and gatherings.  

Preliminary sketch of the East Ridge community space by Heidi Hefferlin.

Civic Space Design

Other civic space designs have created hubs for culture, entertainment and leisure. The Greenway Farms Conference Center in Hixson integrated landscaped grounds and connection to the trails with views of the North Chickamauga Creek to complement its meeting facilities. Downtown Chattanooga’s Miller Park Pavilion offers a modern, glass multi-purpose space which is an idyllic spot for festivals and markets. The Avondale Youth and Family Development Center in East Chattanooga is another example of HK's thoughtful community oriented civic space design. With a branch of the Chattanooga Public Library, a large multipurpose room, indoor and outdoor athletic facilities, lounges for youth, and classrooms, the Avondale YFD Center provides a space for community building and personal growth in an often neglected corner of the city. 

Aerial view of the Greenway Farms Conference Center and its relationship with the existing walking trail.

Arguably our most ambitious community project is The Commons in Collegedale, Tennessee. This expansive town square environment includes the Founder’s Hall, the Chestnut Hall event center, a playground, and plenty of green space for public gatherings. From concerts to holiday celebrations, The Commons has become a beloved fixture for connecting residents.

Collegedale Common's Chestnut Hall event center (left) and Founder's Hall (right).

At HK Architects we feel civic spaces carry immense power to strengthen communities when thoughtfully designed. We pride ourselves on creating public environments that uplift identities, spur connections, and give people joyful spaces to simply be together. The projects noted here reflect only a sample of those efforts, but nevertheless showcase our mission to build not just buildings but also communal bonds through architecture.