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Michael Solonoski

Michael Solonoski

New York, NY, US

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The Philadelphia Skating Center

A senior thesis project, the goal of the project was to create an indoor skating facility within the city of Philadelphia to serve as a recreational skating rink, a training center, a performance venue, and cultural landmark.  The scope of the project included a skating surface with seating for 1000 people, a small museum dedicated to the Philadelphia Skating Club and Humane Society and the winter recreation on the Schuylkill River, and a restaurant.  The design concept includes generous natural light and exposure to the natural surroundings, engaging the active river trail for bikers and pedestrians, and fluidity of form inspired by the movement of human body during ice skating.  Systems considered in the design process were a breathing, double-skin exterior wall to allow for natural light and ventilation, light-weight space frame roof,  and exterior and interior shading devices using fixed bamboo louvers.  Located on original site of the Philadelphia Skating Club and Humane Society, the project aimed to bring ice skating back to Philadelphia's Schuylkill River while integrating the historic and active characteristics that make the park such a unique place.

 
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Status: School Project
Location: Philadelphia, PA, US