Kitty Hollow Park Community Center

The identity of this building is defined by its prominent butterfly roof, which rises above the tree line and “peeks out” within the park. With a heavy timber look, the roof creates a recognizable silhouette that feels both modern and rooted in nature. Additionally, the structure is flanked on either side by metal stud frames with stone walls, creating the impression of two intersecting volumes unified beneath a single canopy. Expansive glazing reveals the timber structure and invites natural light deep into the interior. During rain events, the butterfly roof becomes an experiential feature, channeling water through integrated weirs into a landscaped creek. This in-turn transforms stormwater into a visible and beautiful moment within the park. No matter the weather, the building enhances the park’s aesthetic and serves as a welcome space for all. This is apparent through the mural on the park side, the first thing seen when driving into the parking lot. Overall, these elements add vibrancy and reinforce the center’s role as a community landmark.

Inside, the design retains the aesthetic captured from the outside and centers on flexibility. The main gathering hall is intentionally neutral and sophisticated in tone, creating a ballroom-like setting that can easily transform to weddings, community meetings, celebrations, or educational programs. This central space is contrasted by moments of color and energy. Additionally, suspended visual elements form a dynamic overhead composition of varied shapes, sizes, and tones. This creates an artistic focal point that enlivens the neutral interior and highlights the warm brown tones of the heavy timber butterfly roof above. Beyond their visual impact, these elements double as acoustic treatments. They help absorb sound and reduce reverberations, ensuring clarity and comfort during large gatherings. The balance between neutral finishes and strategic pops of color ensures the space feels timeless yet lively, capable of evolving with different events and user groups.

Furniture and layout planning were approached with adaptability in mind. Interior furnishings can be configured for various private and community events based on changing needs. Durable yet refined selections ensure longevity while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere. Outside, seating areas are positioned to provide comfortable viewing zones where parents can relax while maintaining clear sightlines to children playing on the adjacent lawn and park amenities. Together, the interior and exterior FFE strategy supports both structured events and informal daily use, reinforcing the community center’s role as a social anchor within the park.

The final design reflects close collaboration between the architectural and landscape teams to ensure the building feels fully integrated with Kitty Hollow Park. Working alongside Halff, the Landscape Architect, the project team carefully aligned the building placement, surrounding trails, and landscape features so the community center functions as both a destination and a natural extension of the park environment.

Positioned along the edge of the open lawn and trail system, the building creates a strong visual focal point while remaining approachable from multiple paths throughout the park. The surrounding landscape frames views of the butterfly roof and timber structure while guiding visitors from the parking area and trails into the central gathering space.

Together, the architecture and landscape create a unified experience where the building, open lawn, and circulation paths support one another. The result is a welcoming community hub that serves park visitors throughout the day while also providing a memorable setting for events and gatherings.