The challenge for the design team was to address three independent sites and programs, while creating a common approach and “branding” that would be both inviting and recognizable to the public, adaptable to dozens of future Neighborhood Center sites around the city.

The proposal was developed by creating a similar design logic and urban language for the different projects. By highlighting the connection with the public spaces, creating extravertive and open architecture, each project connects to the urban and natural surroundings, inviting the public space and community to enter.

The contemporary buildings provide recognizable, geometric forms that allow natural elements and open space to seep into the heart of the projects. Materials were chosen in similar tints so that the design strategy can be replicated as a recognizable icon in different neighborhoods of the city for future projects to come.

A major theme for all the Neighborhood Center projects is the relationship between the buildings and the parks, the public and natural spaces. The Urban Ribbon opens the central space completely to the neighboring public park and creates a vertical sequence of public and green spaces up until the roof, where we find urban farming plots and sports courts.