Perspectival South Elevation
This Cycling Wellness Center is located in the Grand Concourse neighborhood of Bronx, NY. It was developed in connection to local organizations such as WHEDco and the New York Biking Coalition. This proposal is an overall response to the COVID-19 pandemic and how cycling could positively impact this neighborhood. Looking at WHEDco’s research on the needs and concerns of residents, I found that the top three concerns could potentially be architecturally addressed:
- Community Space
- Better parks and public spaces
- Benches and Bike Lanes.
This proposed space is not just a place for cycling education, but also a place for community integration and interaction.
Envisioning this nested space as a center for for learning and play, while also providing park access to integrate the geriatric center and its surrounding community.
There are three important elements of the proposal, the public greenery, accessible kitchen space and dining area, and a community environment.
Site Plan, scale 1/16″ = 1’0″
Upper Level, scale 1/8″ = 1’0″
Lower Level, scale 1/8″ = 1’0″
The integration of the cycling in this project includes a wider RPA bike path with raised recycled concrete barriers and a slower bike learning track on the upper level of the wellness center.
Circulation Diagram: the cyclists and pedestrians mimic each other
As shown in the diagram above, the pedestrian circulation below mimics the cycling circulation in the track above.
Perspective from Southeast View, showing the recycled concrete barriers and wider RPA bike path.
As we see in this pandemic, the outdoors are harder to enjoy with social distancing and a lack of green space in New York.
This proposal is a response to the current normal; it provides a large park above and a nested community center below.
Cross Section, scale 1/8″ = 1’0″
An interesting feature of the project is the oval indoor courtyard below. It acts as a puzzle piece of the park above.
Interior Perspective of the Lower Level Courtyard
Long Section, scale 1/8″ = 1’0″
Bike Parking Diagram
Another important aspect to note about this project is the demolition and reconstruction of the existing walls. The existing wall that once surrounded the geriatric center has been repurposed as the facade for the new wellness center. Pieces have been cut and reconfigured to create an interesting patterned design.
Perspective View from Southwest: RPA Bike Path