WSU students design ‘parklet’ near Garland Sandwich Shoppe

A “parklet” is going in on North Madison Street, in front of the Garland Sandwich Shoppe in north Spokane.

The parklet, which is a parking space or loading zone that’s converted into a sidewalk extension, was designed and installed by third-year architecture students at Washington State University.

Led by Mona Ghandi, assistant professor in the School of Design and Construction, the project is described as a way to generate pedestrian activity, help local businesses and create new functions for streets.

The parklet will provide outdoor seating for the sandwich shop, which is at 3903 N. Madison St.

“Our objective is creating a vibrant public space in the neighborhood that benefits the people in the neighborhood and local businesses and attracts newcomers,” Ephraim Elongo, a junior architecture student, said in a statement.

Another WSU parklet design will be entered into the American Institute of Architects Spokane competition, which recognizes excellence in architectural design in the Spokane community. The 2018 AIA Design competition will take place April 26 and 27 at the Spokane Convention Center.

Students designed and began building the Garland parklet on the Pullman campus. Students received support from the Inland Northwest Architecture Foundation, Pullman Building Supply, Integrus Architecture, Garland Sandwich Shoppe, WSU’s School of Design and Construction, Bernardo|Wills Architects, MMEC Architecture and Interiors and ALSC Architects.