Smith Gee Studio had spent 18 months sketching ideas for a community amenity at the 400,000 SF Cummins Station office building when owner, DZL Management announced that the project would happen and needed to be completed in six months, in time for the Chief Manager’s wedding.  SGS quickly finalized the design while a local contractor worked to begin construction.  A trip with the client to New York City to observe the High Line linear park and to visit furniture and lighting installations proved to be inspirational.  Days before the wedding, the final touches and punch lists were being completed.

The transformation of the space from eyesore to exquisite simultaneously respects the past while looking towards the future. The Community Garden leverages forward the client’s continuous investment and interest in revitalizing the LEED ND-certified Cummins Station campus. It grants new dignity to what was a derelict urban space and since opening has attracted high-rent tenants to spaces that overlook this inspiring amenity.