Elm-Hampshire Park

Elm and Hampshire Plaza is a small urban park located at the corner of Elm Street and Hampshire Street in the Wellington-Harrington neighborhood of Cambridge, Massachusetts. The plaza underwent a comprehensive renovation in 2015, transforming it into a more inviting and interesting community space.

The park features a rectangular layout with a pointed end, giving it a unique shape. Its most distinguishing visual element is the bright orange-red color used for various metal design elements throughout the space, including an ornamental fence, chairs, tables, and a lending library.

The plaza's design incorporates both hardscaped and landscaped areas. The concrete plaza facing Hampshire Street serves as a focal point for community events and gatherings. This area contains several heavy metal chairs and tables, most of which appear to be bolted in place for security. A low, semi-circular sitting wall along the interior perimeter provides additional seating for visitors.

Asphalt paths curve through the center of the plaza, surrounded by attractive landscaping. The park's greenery includes mature trees, younger flowering trees, shrubs, and several flower beds. Some well-established trees, including a row of four tall pine trees, are located near the back of the park adjacent to neighboring houses.

While Elm and Hampshire Plaza doesn't include a traditional playground, it does offer some elements designed to appeal to children and families. These include a climbing carousel and several rocking chairs among the fixed seating options.

The park is well-maintained and lit, making it accessible and safe for visitors throughout the day. Its renovation was part of Cambridge's Healthy Parks and Playgrounds Initiative, which emphasized creating different parks for different needs and the importance of spaces for all ages that allow for community socializing or simply sitting.