Union Square Renovation + Streetscape Enhancements

Building on Hickory’s brand of a ‘Life Well Crafted’ and ambitious goals for economic development, LandDesign wanted the enhancements to Union Square to be authentic to the unique community character, while incorporating new, relevant uses that position the downtown for long-term success. The first step to maintaining the site’s integrity was to preserve the iconic ‘sails,’ which are a beloved part of the square’s identity, and establish a new front door to the heart of downtown. We envisioned an activated, 18-hour destination that considers the needs of both residents and businesses. Every space within the square is flexible to accommodate the present moment, whether that be outdoor dining, pop-up retail, or a live performance.

Union Square is home to several historical features of great meaning to the Hickory community. Our team sought a way to weave the existing structures into the new design, which was challenging in consideration of the current political conversation surrounding historic monumentation in the public realm. To infuse the site with history without replicating it, we chose to preserve a World War I cannon that commemorates members of the community who served during the war. The cannon sits atop an elevated, multi-tiered structure, now known as ‘Cannon Hill,’ that is a signature feature of Union Square, creating opportunities for visitors to engage with a piece of Hickory’s history.