Stretching between Pasadena’s historic Library and Civic Auditorium, Paseo Colorado is an urban village in which both residents and visitors can live, shop, work and play. Now a well-known destination, Paseo Colorado depicts the strong arts culture and history of the area, while unifying the City’s Civic Center for the first time through a series of courtyards and pedestrian arteries.

With the rich tradition of Pasadena as a backdrop, project designers didn’t need to look far for inspiration. Drawing from the themes of historic Pasadena, the design team gave the landscape complexity and depth through use of elements reflecting local garden characteristics, including a large variety of roses reinforcing Pasadena’s Rose Parade and Rose Bowl fame. Decorative ceramic tile and fountains designed by prominent artists lend a sense of history to the project.  Coordinated streetscape components including historic lights, enriched paving and pedestrian enhancements contribute to the project’s vitality, while linking Paseo Colorado to the rest of the Civic Center and Old Pasadena and the Playhouse District.

Overall, Paseo Colorado has re-established the axial connection along Garfield Avenue between two of the City’s most important civic buildings, which was the basis of Pasadena’s 1924 Beaux Arts Civic Center Plan. The streetscape improvements, gathering spaces and seating and dining areas contribute to the overall sense of place, making Paseo Colorado a valuable asset to the surrounding community.


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