Matthias Baldwin Park, Public park in Franklin Town, Philadelphia, United States.
Matthias Baldwin Park is a two-acre urban space with curved terraces that rise from a few inches to more than seven feet, featuring nine clusters of vertical rock formations. The site blends landscaping with sculptural elements to create a meadow-like environment within the city.
The site once held Baldwin Locomotive Works, a major locomotive manufacturing factory that operated in Philadelphia from 1835 to 1928. After the factory closed, the industrial land was later transformed into this public green space.
The park was designed by artist Athena Tacha, who blended natural elements with geometric patterns throughout the space. Visitors notice how the wave-like arrangement of plants creates a flowing rhythm that feels both artistic and grounded.
The park is freely accessible with no formal pathways, so wear sturdy shoes when walking on the uneven terrain. The community organizes regular meetings and cleanups if you want to get involved or learn more about the space.
The plants are arranged in wave-like patterns that shift color with each season, creating an ever-changing visual effect. This planting scheme uses hardy perennials and shrubs that require little maintenance, turning the space into a landscape that transforms throughout the year.
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