Coffee & Conversations

The Power of Public Space

Join us before you kick off your workday with panelists from LandDesign and ATCO Properties (the development behind Camp North End) for a discussion on the importance of public space in Charlotte. Public spaces - whether a small pocket park or formal urban open space - provide places for people to interact, reflect, and play and, when actively programmed, can bring places and communities to life. Design is crucial to making public spaces feel safe, interesting, and inviting . Learn through perspectives of renowned designers and developers on how they've shaped the urban realm at multiple scales across Charlotte and beyond!

Did we mention the free tea and espresso beverages from @open_view_coffee?! We’ll have a coffee cart with made-to-order espresso and breakfast treats. Grab a warm cup and join us for an exciting presentation and panel discussion hosted at the Charlotte Urban Design Center.

The Urban Design Center is located at 1507 Camden Rd. in the heart of South End. We encourage you to walk, bike, or take the light rail as we are steps away from the Bland Street Light Rail Station. There is two-hour paid parking on Camden Road and other adjacent streets and limited free on-street parking on S. Church Street, Key Court, and Rensselaer Avenue. Check out the South End parking map for more information.

About the Panelists:

Richard Petersheim, PLA

As a Partner at LandDesign, Richard plays an integral role in driving the firm’s innovative and collaborative culture. Richard looks beyond the borders of the project to identify ways in which the improvements to the landscape add value to the adjoining context and reinforce the community goals. His affinity for public art and creative expression are evident in his project designs. As a consensus builder, Richard plays an influential role in bridging gaps in divergent development, community, and political voices to create executable strategies for ambitious projects.

Jeff Mis

Jeff is an Associate and landscape designer in LandDesign’s Charlotte office. He begins designing by looking at the bones of the site to see what existed before, then transforming it into a usable public space that respects the history of the place. Jeff is a horticulturally-minded designer with strong experience and passion for historic and cultural landscapes. As part of LandDesign’s open space studio, he has worked on a number of significant projects that have shaped the open space and recreation experience in the Charlotte region. Jeff’s design approach is rooted in his ability to create quality outdoor amenity spaces that integrate recreation and education.

Tesho Akindele

Tesho Akindele is a Development Analyst and works with the Development team at Camp North End on a variety of projects.

Prior to joining ATCO, Tesho had a nine-year professional soccer career, representing Canada, Orlando City, and FC Dallas. During his playing career, Tesho graduated from Southern New Hampshire University with a master’s degree in finance, was an active member of the MLS Players Association and was a founding member of the Black Players for Change group.

Tesho is a husband, father, and passionate urbanist.

Tommy Mann

Tommy Mann is Development Director for Camp North End and the VP of Development for ATCO, focused on all ongoing redevelopment efforts for Camp North End including leasing, design, and construction. Prior to joining ATCO, Tommy developed urban infill mixed-use projects in Washington DC. He was Director of Development at Kettler, Federal Realty Investment Trust, and Crosland working in retail and mixed-use projects.

Host or Publisher The Urban Design Center