City Walk BHAM

Four modern amenity pavilions are distributed along the one-mile City Walk BHAM park, which activates the neglected land beneath the I-59/20 Interstate with a civic space for the people of Birmingham. 

This anchoring pavilion is a crisp, glassy visitor center that provides information and aid, as well as staff facilities, custom benches hewn from windfallen trees, and public restrooms.

Aligned with different park uses, the pavilions are united by a natural palette of textured concrete and weathering steel, hard- wearing materials that develop a rich patina over time. Perforated steel gates easily open and close at either side, balancing security and porosity.

The graphic patterns on the steel gates and walls are distinct to each pavilion and are drawn from images of wildlife species that exist only in Alabama, such as the Red Hills Salamander. The gates include orienting maps that place their location within the park.

At City Walk’s Barkery dog park, this smaller structure provides shade, restrooms, and maintenance facilities. Sustainable tropical hardwood doors extend to the floor, offering privacy and security to the stalls.

The rugged and refined pavilions hold up to their highly urban context yet are scaled for people, with tactile surfaces and compelling materials and patterns at eye level.

Along 9th Avenue North, this large pavilion supports the thriving skate park and busy roller rink. 

Each pavilion features a faceted steel countertop fabricated by local shop Milsap Studios. These sculptural sinks—paired with durable mirrors with integrated lighting—add an elevated aspect and are able to endure hard use and exposure to the elements.

The pavilion adjacent to the skate park features three entries and a broad, smooth route through— effectively adding an annex to the skaters’ terrain.

The shaded pavilions offer a respite from the elements, yet maintain a visual connection to the surrounding park and activities.

Large convenience station.

Extra large convenience station.

Medium convenience station.

Medium convenience station.

Small convenience station.

Small convenience station.

Large convenience station.

Small convenience station.

Medium convenience station.

Large convenience station.

Interior of the Visitor Center. 

CityWalk BHAM site plan.