The Urban Beach is located along the waterfront of the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland, Ohio. The project aims to break down social barriers and improve urban life through accessible design. The focus is on creating spaces that allow community members and visitors to comfortably gather, promoting connection in a busy city environment.

Rammed Earth Core

The design features a rammed earth unit as its central circulation core. This core supports the structure and allows for large glass curtain walls that bring in natural light. The earthy texture of the rammed earth adds a grounding element to the building, while the glass walls connect the indoor spaces to the outdoor environment, creating a sense of openness.

Grand Lobby Functionality

At ground level, the grand lobby serves multiple purposes. It includes basement parking, a food court, and flexible seating. This arrangement makes the space usable for many different activities, inviting a variety of visitors. A sloping green roof connects the lobby to the waterfront, providing visual continuity and highlighting the rammed earth base of the structure.

Spiral Office Spaces

Above the lobby, office spaces are arranged in a spiral. This design includes terraces with greenery on each level, encouraging a lively atmosphere. Each third floor has large balconies designed for gatherings, which fosters interaction among people who work in the building. This layout reflects the intent to create spaces that bring people together.

Public Green Roof

The upper level includes a green roof accessible to the public. This area offers views of the surrounding city and serves as an urban space for relaxation. The design of the roof connects users to the outside environment, promoting activity in an otherwise dense urban area.

Native plants on the green roof blend with the skyline, enhancing the local ecosystem and contributing to the building's overall environmental goals.