Editing Dilworth Park (section)

== City Hall Setting ==

Dilworth Park's location at City Hall provides setting that amplifies its significance. John McArthur Jr.'s masterpiece provides architectural backdrop that no other plaza location could match, while the park's activity creates foreground that brings the historic building into contemporary urban life. The relationship between park and building demonstrates how public space can support landmark architecture while landmark architecture elevates public space.<ref name="olin"/>

The park's success has influenced perceptions of City Hall itself, making the building more accessible and welcoming than its imposing architecture might otherwise suggest. Visitors who encounter City Hall through Dilworth Park's active programming develop different relationships with the landmark than those who encounter it from traffic-dominated streets. The park thus serves interpretive function, introducing the building in ways that encourage engagement rather than intimidation.<ref name="gallery"/>