When Art Becomes Architecture: Lee’s Summit’s Signature Arches
The Challenge: To reimagine the heart of downtown Lee’s Summit, the city undertook a bold vision: close Green Street from 3rd Street to the garage entrance on 2nd Street and expand a walkable district anchored by a new indoor farmers market. Open-air performance areas, an inclusive playground, public art and flexible community spaces will bring the district to life. The space called for a design feature in the Green Street Grove—a sculptural series of arches, nicknamed the “Wickets,” that would elevate the experience from everyday to extraordinary. The challenge was twofold: bring artistry and engineering together to create an iconic outdoor structure built to last.
Year
2025Location
Lee's Summit, MissouriPartners
City of Lee's Summit, Tessere, Olsson, Lane4, McCownGordon Construction
Crafting the Solution: Working closely with Olsson Studio’s original design intent, and continuous collaboration with the city, Dimensional Innovations refined and engineered five custom wickets—two small, two medium, and one towering center arch—all rooted in the shape and structure of a maple leaf. DI then brought them to life through expert fabrication, adding thoughtful enhancements that balanced artistry with engineering. Ranging up to 24 feet tall, stretching 44 feet across and weighing 6,800 pounds, the arches are intentionally staggered in height and width and scale to invite exploration and frame movement through the space.
Each arch features a laser-cut pattern inspired by a maple leaf pattern, layered over a structural “X” brace hidden within. This nod to nature connects directly with a nearby maple seed sculpture by artist Heath Satow, tying the landscape together through material storytelling.
Crafted from a rolled steel tube and coated in a metallic white finish, the wickets shimmer in the sunlight and come alive at night. Integrated lighting—pinpoint fixtures along the tops and uplighting at the base—transforms each arch into a glowing landmark at night. The programmable RGB system adds seasonal flair and after-dark energy, creating moments of wonder well into the evening.
The result is more than a structure—it’s a signature. These sculptural gateways now anchor Green Street with purpose and personality, marking downtown Lee’s Summit as a place built for gathering and celebration.
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Spencer Farley
Practice Director
Spencer has been an integral leader of the Entertainment, Hospitality and Retail practice at Dimensional Innovations since 2018. Having a passion for building and maintaining relationships, he has the luxury of... more about Spencer Farley