Kroger Cincinnatus Mural Plaza

Project Narrative

Beneath the iconic Cincinnatus Mural—gifted to the city by The Kroger Company and designed by renowned muralist Richard Haas—lies an aging parking lot poised for transformation. The mural pays tribute to Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus, the legendary Roman general who saved Rome from invasion, then famously declined the offer of absolute power as Caesar. Choosing instead to return to a humble life on his farm, Cincinnatus became a lasting symbol of selfless public service. His principles formed a cornerstone of the Roman Empire for centuries and later inspired figures like George Washington, his generals and admirals, as well as the French military leaders who supported the American Revolution. This legacy ultimately inspired the naming of Cincinnati itself.
The proposed Cincinnatus Mural Plaza reimagines this space as a vibrant public plaza blending history, art, education and sustainability. Drawing on the mural’s depiction of ancient Rome, with Cincinnatus at the center, the plaza brings the mural to life through immersive architecture. Narrowing granite bands, angled pergolas and living green walls use “forced perspective” to create an illusion of depth.
The design uses a green wall with sculpted bas relief panels to trace the evolution of civic virtue - from Cincinnatus and Rome to the American Revolution. Visitors will encounter figures like George Washington and leaders who placed the needs of the republic above personal power. The story continues through to present-day Cincinnati, where civic leadership remains central through the benevolent Cincinnatus Association.
Elements reinforce the historic theme:
A Roman-inspired pergola, planted with grapevines, offers shade.
A faux reflecting pool with Italian tile deepens the mural’s visual impact.
A glowing LED cauldron, “Civic Flame”, symbolizes the eternal spirit of service.
A “Walk of Fame” etched into granite bands honors public servants from 1788 into the future.
Sustainability is built into the design. Solar panels atop the pergola generate renewable energy. A concealed cistern beneath the faux reflecting pool collects stormwater to irrigate the green wall and arbor plantings. The entire space is designed with net-zero energy goals.
A highlight of the plaza is an interactive working “hydraulis”—a modern reimagining of the first ancient Roman pipe organ invented in the time of Cincinnatus. Covered by a Roman-style canopy, it invites visitors to engage with history through music.
The plaza will serve as a civic stage and outdoor classroom, activated by local artists, educators, and students. Through storytelling, performance art, and public programs, it becomes a space for learning and reflection. The plaza connects ancient Rome to today to inspire the youth of tomorrow.
Cincinnatus Mural Plaza honors the values that shaped Cincinnati—public service and civic duty, providing a modern touchstone for the community to gather, learn, and be inspired.

                                           

Project Details -

Submission Category

Landscape Architecture & Community Planning - Planning & Analysis Projects

Date of Completion

May, 2021