Column of the Immaculate Conception – Rome, Italy

Isaac Kremer/ September 8, 2025/ Field Notes, Physical, plaza, preservation, public art, streetscape/ 0 comments

The Column of the Immaculate Conception (Colonna dell’Immacolata Concezione) is in the Piazza Mignanelli in Rome, Italy. The monument was erected in 1857 to commemorate the proclamation of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception by Pope Pius IX in 1854, which states that the Virgin Mary was conceived free from original sin. The monument was designed by architect Luigi Poletti.

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Colosseum – Rome, Italy

Isaac Kremer/ September 8, 2025/ Field Notes, museum, Physical, plaza, public art/ 0 comments

The Colosseum is an iconic ancient Roman amphitheater located in the center of Rome, Italy. Officially known as the Flavian Amphitheater, it is a renowned symbol of Imperial Rome and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The Colosseum was built between A.D. 70-80 under the emperors Vespasian and Titus of the Flavian dynasty. It was used for

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Santa Maria Maggiore – Rome, Italy

Isaac Kremer/ September 5, 2025/ Churches, Civic, Field Notes, Physical, plaza, preservation, public art/ 0 comments

Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four major papal basilicas and the largest church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is a masterpiece of Christian art and architecture with origins dating back to the 5th century. As one of the four major papal basilicas in Rome, it has a special status and is a significant pilgrimage destination.

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Busch Gardens – Williamsburg, Virginia

Isaac Kremer/ June 17, 2025/ beer, Economic, Field Notes, garden, Physical, placemaking, plaza, public art, streetscape/ 0 comments

This is the 50th year anniversary of Busch Gardens. While some people enjoy fast rides I am one who keeps my feet planted firmly on the ground. While walking around I could not help but appreciate the thought and effort that went into the scenery, art, and visitor experience. Entrance gater to the parking garage sets the tone for the

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Visit to Baltimore – Baltimore, Maryland

Isaac Kremer/ November 29, 2024/ Field Notes, Physical, public art, Social, storefront, tactical urbanism/ 0 comments

Baltimore has a distinctive character with rowhouses lining many blocks. This self-serve pop-up to sell fresh flowers is an interesting way to activate public spaces and provide a service, while earning some revenue. We wanted to try an ice cream place but it was closed. So we tried the best chocolate covered berries in Baltimore. Was fun to have a

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Dr. Phillips Center and POP! – Orlando, Florida

Isaac Kremer/ November 5, 2024/ Field Notes, Physical, placemaking, public art/ 0 comments

Dr. Phillips Center and plaza are an important cultural amenity in Orlando. This massive light pylon with curved glass panels creates a sense of excitement when people visit the plaza in front of the center. Across the street in City Hall Plaza is POP! – a temporary public art installation with five towering monoliths that hold playful creatures that come

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Downtown – Montclair, New Jersey

Isaac Kremer/ October 17, 2024/ downtown, Field Notes, Physical, placemaking, public art, storefront/ 0 comments

The Lackawana Railroad terminal building has been creatively repurposed with a barbeque restaurant and bar. The Montclair Center BID is responsible for revitalization efforts in Montclair. The Montclair Historic Preservation Commission prepared these markers to help people familiarize themselves with historic properties in town. Large scale new development is relatively well integrated with the existing historic building stock. Note the

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Bridgewater Commons – Bridgewater, New Jersey

Isaac Kremer/ September 29, 2024/ Field Notes, Physical, placemaking, public art/ 0 comments

Increasingly malls are becoming locations for innovation beyond the traditional model of long corridors lined with stores. We were pleased to find public art and a community hub on a recent visit to Bridgewater Commons in Bridgewater, New Jersey. British multi-disciplinary artist Lois O’Hara hand painted this expansive 75-foot art mural. Her vibrant and diverse practice takes in large scale

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