TMC Helix Park in downtown Houston is a celebration of human and ecological resilience, transforming a sprawling asphalt parking lot into a vibrant park that seamlessly blends sustainability with healthy living. Located next to Brays Bayou, this innovative landscape acts as a “living sponge,” capturing, filtering, and repurposing rainwater to nourish the entire watershed. Designed to withstand a 500-year storm, the park can retain up to 3.2 million gallons of stormwater. Featuring over 650 newly planted native trees and interactive water features, the park fosters comfort and invites year-round outdoor engagement. Its design prioritizes health and well-being while integrating vital resiliency strategies.
The park centers on human health and comfort, offering a multisensory experience with thoughtfully placed thermal comfort zones throughout the space. Multimobility pathways wind through cooling water features and biodiverse gardens, creating an oasis for both play and restoration. A comprehensive multi-modal infrastructure links the park to Houston’s broader street plan, making it a hub for vibrant community activities. Expansive gathering areas, playful zones, and quiet gardens cater to a wide range of needs and experiences, reflecting the city’s diverse population. The park’s design is defined by a neurodiversity toolkit, offering flexible, customizable spaces that engage a diverse audience and provide health and wellness to a broad constituency.
In response to the challenges posed by Houston's climate, the park incorporates strategic design elements to counter extreme weather conditions. With average temperatures rising to 92°F and humidity levels often between 60-90%, the park integrates 69,400 square feet of shade canopies and 380,000 square feet of cool, permeable pavement to mitigate heat. A variety of water features further cool the landscape, offering immersive experiences while enhancing comfort.
Supporting the ecological and social functions, the park’s connectivity strategy, focused on multi-mobility options, connects the city to vibrant community programming, including weekly performances, lectures, and yoga classes. This pedestrian-friendly space features interactive waterfalls, peaceful streams, a central lawn, and an active play area—all set within a biodiverse botanical garden, offering a rich, immersive experience for all.
