Currie SowardsAguila, the award-winning architecture firm based in Delray Beach, has created a dramatic and colorful design for the multi-million dollarBluesten Park Community Center in Hallandale Beach. The 17-acre campus will include a YMCA, featuring 72 foot wide serpentine roofing system, evoking motion and establishing a unique illuminated ambiance via vast translucent panels. CSA is partnering with ACAI Associates on the project, which will become a landmark venue for the city. The project is expected to break ground on phase one of the campus by the summer, with the YMCA ground breaking scheduled for fall 2017.
“We are honored to have been chosen by the city leaders to design this important project,” said Jess Sowards. “Our plan is to create a modern civic wellness center that possesses a dynamic sense of energy and flow. The volumetric bold shapes convey this dramatic concept, and the utilization of vivid colors expresses the city’s diversity and energy.”
The dominant design feature of the approximately 45,000 square foot YMCA building will be the serpentine roof, which will create an impressive and instantly recognizable architectural element. But more than a geometric design flourish, the roof will provide diffuse light into the building, reducing the need for electricity during the day. Vast translucent panels will be placed upon the roof, bringing daylight into the windowless gym area. At night, the roof will glow from interior light illuminating out.
“By using the 3D modeling program Revit, we were able to exercise more freedom and creativity when designing the complex shapes and curves of the structure,” explained Sowards. “The program also analyzed the way sunlight would enter the building, providing a computer model for our clients to visually understand our illumination concept.”
Another signature element of the building is the one story tilt wall, which will be constructed in varying heights and colors.
“Instead of a plain façade, we are creating one with an illusion of motion,” continued Sowards. “The design will evoke velocity and deceleration, simulating rhythm and portraying the energy and activities inside.”
"We are impressed by Currie Sowards Aguila's ability to take our vision and transform it into a truly spectacular design. Bluesten Park will come to represent a signature style for the city and provide our residents with a sense of pride for years to come,” Gregg Harris, Capital Projects Manager, City of Hallandale Beach.
The campus when completed will include 46,000 square foot community center (YMCA), a pool house, bandshell/pavilion, a field house, playground, basketball and tennis courts, baseball and youth league fields and other facilities.
About Currie SowardsAguila:
Founded in 1969, the award-winning architecture firm’s bold designs have enriched communities around the globe. The team’s creative inspirations have graced cultural centers, residential communities, commercial /mixed-use developments and an array of municipal projects.
The versatile practice, known for its distinctive designs, has garnered acclaim for their singular ability to transform once utilitarian facilities into iconic structures for municipalities. From community centers to parking garages, fire stations to bridges, CSA allows design to be experienced in unexpected ways.
Their practice is augmented by the commitment of the partners to community involvement. Bob Currie, Jess Sowards and Jose Aguila have defined their legacy through their philosophy of “giving back by design.”
