The redesign of Nicollet Mall — a cherished 12‑block downtown corridor — re-established it as a vibrant social spine for the city, preserving key features while transforming it into a more pedestrian‑centered, greener, and activated public realm. The masterplan recasts Nicollet Mall as a “ribbon of light” and a curated urban promenade that anchors movement, connectivity, and shared experiences across downtown Minneapolis. In the project, lighting itself became part of this connective tissue: tall poles with LED "moon lights" lift the light source to create an even, welcoming wash of illumination, enhancing safety and conviviality along the public way. Color‑changing beacons and sculptural lanterns on the poles animate the corridor with dynamic visual rhythms tied to events and identity. Trees, landscaping, and outdoor “rooms” such as the reading area reinforce the street’s green identity, with uplights and subtle illumination reinforcing the landscape as an integral part of the experience. Reflective elements like mirror‑topped trellises outlined with LEDs further enrich the environment, creating light‑activated moments that draw passerby attention and enliven both the day and night experience of the corridor.