Studio dwg. is honored to be featured on Central Texas Gardener, highlighting the transformation of St. John Encampment Commons — once an expanse of impervious asphalt — into a dynamic public park that supports biodiversity and community connection. The episode features Daniel Woodroffe, President & Founder of dwg., and Cassie Gowan, Design Director of dwg., as they share insights into the design and impact of the space.

The full episode airs on May 10, 2025, on PBS, but a preview is available now:

Watch the segment: PBS Link
Read more on Central Texas Gardener: Blog Post
Explore the project: dwg. Project Page

Reclaiming Space for Nature and Community

Located on the ACC Highland Campus, St. John Encampment Commons reflects a larger effort to reimagine the urban landscape — creating a place that balances ecological restoration with everyday use. What was once a heat-trapping parking lot is now a thriving green space that manages stormwater, supports local wildlife, and provides a welcoming environment for students and the surrounding community.

This site carries a deep history, once serving as the gathering place for the St. John Encampment, a significant cultural and spiritual hub for African American communities in Central Texas. For decades, it was a place of connection, education, and empowerment. The transformation of the land into a public park ensures that its history is not lost but honored through thoughtful design and storytelling embedded in the landscape.

Daniel Woodroffe describes the project as an opportunity to rethink how urban spaces function — not just as built environments, but as living systems that enhance the city’s resilience. Cassie Gowan emphasizes the role of plants in this transformation, noting how native species were carefully selected to establish a landscape that is both ecologically rich and visually engaging.

Dr. Molly Beth Malcolm, former Executive Vice Chancellor of Operations & Public Affairs at ACC, reflects on the significance of this transformation, saying, “St. John Encampment Commons represents more than a green space. It is a reflection of ACC’s commitment to preserving history while building a future that is inclusive, sustainable, and deeply connected to the communities we serve.”

A Design Rooted in Place

With its focus on performative landscapes and adaptive reuse, the park aligns with dwg.'s mission to integrate nature into the built environment in ways that are both functional and inspiring. The design fosters a meaningful connection between people and place, reinforcing the value of landscapes that are designed to evolve over time.

Watch the Full Story

The full episode of Central Texas Gardener airs on May 10, 2025, on PBS. Until then, explore the links above to learn more about St. John Encampment Commons and how dwg. continues to shape climate-responsive, community-driven landscapes.