We were assigned a site to design a youth center in North Miami Beach, adjacent to an existing skatepark. The site itself was largely unoccupied and patrons of the skatepark did not seem to attract young adults. In order to appeal to this demographic, we created a program to include a gym and recreation area, table tennis areas, a juice bar and a skate shop. Our studio was also tasked with including parking in our scheme, leading us to arrive at a recti-linear massing with circulation spaces at the perimeter. Sea level projections in the area required an elevation of 9ft, which created an opportunity to devise a unique solution for accessible entrances.

Redesigning the skate park, we decided to continue the idea of ramping throughout the project, creating a halfpipe to enter the building from the skating area and another ramp from ground to first floor. The center features a butterfly roof and is wrapped in a pre-weathered copper screen to allow the required passive ventilation. We took inspiration from natural patterns such as the dragonfly wing to relate to flight and movement of air. Interior finishes make the space a modern hang out for young adults looking to have some time indoors without sacrificing the feel of being near the ocean.