HOW DO WE CREATE A DYNAMIC DESTINATION POINT FOR BOTH THE LOCAL COMMUNITY AND BICYCLISTS MAKING A STOP ALONG THE Ohio to erie trail?

ABOUT

The Wilson Road shelter, located on the Ohio to Erie Trail (local Camp Chase Rail Trail) serves as a major gathering point for groups of neighbors, bicyclists, and nature enthusiasts. Contained within and adjacent to the sheltered area is a natural wetland and plaza space, meant to hold larger groups for which the shelter can serve as the supporting element.

The unique form of the shelter was based on a patterning study of Route 40/Broad St and the historic street signage, designed to grab the attention of passing travelers - thus creating an environment to gather, converse, and rest.

PROCESS

Working closely with Columbus Recreation and Parks Department and the community, the design team led a series of community/stakeholder meetings, which drew a conclusion of an “active” park within a natural setting of wetlands and trails. The shelter design was considered for both aesthetics and long term maintenance to achieve the desired result for the community and client.

AWARDS

2017 AIA Ohio Honor Award

2018 AIA Columbus Merit Award

“The jury appreciated the bold, primary elements of the design. A compact material palette and gestural composition have created not only a spot of repose along a route, but a destination and gathering place.”