Lake Johnson Water Activites Center

LOCATION: Raleigh, NC
PROJECT SIZE: 2,500 SQ FT (Enclosed); 2,000 SQ FT (Deck Area)
PROJECT COST: $500,000

An existing boathouse facility was located in close proximity to Avent Ferry Road.  Even though this building was small and unattractive, the client did not want to demolish it as it did provide much needed storage space.  Since the new building had to be built above the one-hundred year flood elevation, the idea was to use the existing building as a base for the new facility.  This space provides storage for boats and boating accessories that are available for rent, as well as a battery charging area.

Above the existing building, the new facility was seen as a series of pavilions that provide office space, concession areas, public restrooms and classroom and instructional space.  These pavilions are arranged in a way that provides limited views to the lake upon entering the facility that gradually expand to encompass the lake and opposite shoreline.  This organization also frames desirable views to picnic areas and a pedestrian bridge that crosses the lake.  

An exterior activities area is created by the placement of the buildings that provide casual seating areas for dining or rest.  A covered connection links the entrance and public restrooms with the instructional space and exterior seating area.  Galvanized trellises create areas for future plant material to shade the dining area and concession window.  A curved stair links the upper activities area with the lower area and dock that is used for fishing and access to boats.

The Water Activities Center is set within an urban park and greenway system at Lake Johnson located within the city limits of Raleigh, NC.  The Water Activities Center is the realization of a portion of an overall master plan comprising several hundred acres of trails, beaches, and picnic areas.  This facility is intended to be the main public access to the park system and the control point for park administrators.

CREDITS:

Photography: James West