Background
Client
St. Paul Parks & Recreation
Year
2022 - present
Service
Architectural Design
Brief
The Phalen Park Trailhead project is divided into two parts: the first part is the design of a new picnic shelter and rest area along the east side of Lake Phalen as a means to better support those using the Lake and the Bruce Vento Trail. The second part is the renovation of the existing pavilion that is located on the west side of Lake Phalen. The content shown below is primarily from the Trailhead portion of the project.
Project Summary
The Approach
The team felt it was important to tie the two-part project together. We gathered a 'park palette' as a way to guide the design of both. Although the two designs vary greatly in terms of scale and program, the appearance of them still embody a playful use of daylight and warm materials.
The Programming
The sun glitters off the lake, the structure of the canoe, and the verticality of the trees drove the design of the Trailhead building. Lumos solar panels cover the shelter, while still allowing light to shine through the structure. Corten steel columns are used as a nod to the appearance of tree trunks. The expression of structure in this design is inspired by the skin-on-frame canoes, one of the oldest type of canoes.
Details
Body
The trailhead buildings are strategically located between the trail and the lake to get the most traction from park and trail goers. The use of solar panels, constructed wetlands, and polycarbonate roofing create nimble and sustainable structures nestled in natural beauty.
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