Noquisiyi Cultural District Site Plan

Client: Nikwasi Initiative

The Noquisiyi Cultural District Site Plan was designed within the area surrounding the Noquisi Mound located in Franklin, NC. Equinox was hired by the Nikwasi Initiative to develop a plan for the 5 acre site surrounding this sacred Cherokee space. Equinox, along with subconsultant McMillan Padzan Smith, worked with the Nikwasi Initiative, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and members of the Franklin community to create a plan for creating a space that honors the history of the site as well as provides a learning environment for visitors to learn about Cherokee culture. Public process drove the creation of the plan that included a Learning Center, Cherokee Café and Dining Space, a variety of trails and walkways and multiple plazas and spaces to promote Cherokee Art and Culture. Probable cost estimates and recommendations for next steps were also included. Equinox developed a plan that will guide the creation of a collective site with diverse offerings that reflect the past, present, and future culture of Cherokee.

Campus Planning  |  Land Planning  |  Open Space & Park Planning  |  Outdoor Recreation Planning  |  Sustainable Site Planning

Thank you for the outstanding job you did with site planning at Nikwasi Mound in Franklin. You provided outstanding talent, professionalism, flexibility and helpfulness. Clearly, you care about your work and about your clients. I have only good things to say about Equinox. If you are undecided on who to use for your design work, go with Equinox! - Elaine Eisenbraun, Executive Director of the Nikwasi Initiative