Project Data:

Completion Date:     9/1/2021

Square Footage:      278000

Building Use:           Community Park

Design Architect:      AO

Project Description:

At the heart of a visionary master planned residential network of approximately 4,000 homes integrated via pedestrian trails and electric vehicle pathways lies Confulence Park, a central recreation node overflowing with cutting-edge twenty-first century amenities. As the focal point of this innovative net zero community, the design draws local inspiration from Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park, a local geological feature formed by ancient plate tectonics. The iconic landforms inspired the sloping roofs of the community building and poolside structures.

The design team was challenged to develop west-facing building massing and orienting the three concrete poured-in-place walls and sloped roofs to achieve optimal solar angles for the integrated photovoltaic panels while also reflecting the Vasquez Rocks-inspired design. The team was able to achieve cost-effective solutions while maintaining a strong architectural identity unique to the residential community.

The 6.4-acre central park comprises of a cutting-edge triple-pool complex featuring a junior Olympic competition pool, an adult swimming facility, and family-friendly pool and spa with poolside cabanas lining the perimeters. The pool deck is divided into two main areas by a covered pool bar / BBQ area and showers. A separate restroom building is integrated into the adjacent hillside along with a 3,700 SF community building that will host resident functions and seasonal events. To further the sustainable mission of the community, each pool is naturally heated by geothermal technology from subsurface sources and photovoltaic panels are integrated throughout the park for energy saving measures.

North of the pool area resides a community garden and a unique dual purpose building featuring a modern Seed Library and steel structure forming an espalier that echoes the shape of the library building. Within, residents are welcomed to enjoy an open-air event space hosting community workshops, and raised garden planters for growing organic produce.

The ambitious architecture and sustainability goals achieved by Confluence Park will deliver an iconic foundation for the community and model for environmentally conscious design for decades to come.