Urban Playground
Movie theater and social spaces
Type architectural, Movie Theater
Location Ann Arbor, Michigan, United State
Category personal Project, individual work
Year Master of 1st year fall, 2024
Instructor Jonathan Rule
This project aims to transform the conventional movie theater into a versatile social hub that caters to both local residents and visitors. Recognizing the lack of fixed, adaptable spaces for large-scale community events in Ann Arbor, my design integrates multiple social spaces to foster interaction and support cultural and recreational activities.
The building is envisioned as a dynamic social event space. It is designed to accommodate diverse uses such as art galleries, markets, and outdoor movie festivals. The concept prioritizes versatility and community engagement while addressing the urban need for event-oriented venues.
space, and bicycle-related programs, extending everyday activity into the building. Upper levels integrate lounge, garden, and theater-support spaces, allowing visitors to experience a gradual transition from public engagement to performance-focused environments.
point plane line
Through site analysis, I categorized Ann Arbor’s social events into three types: point, line, and plane. Point: Small-scale, short-duration events, such as popup markets or exhibitions. Line: Medium-scale, linear events like parades or bicycle tours that connect different locations. Plane: Large-scale, long-duration events, such as outdoor festivals or fairs, requiring expansive, adaptable spaces. The building was designed to accommodate these diverse event types through flexible spatial configurations.
The layout supports multiple configurations for social events, ensuring spaces can be tailored to different needs. This includes indoor and outdoor venues, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.
A unique feature of the design is the integration of a grand circulation ramp, which serves as a primary architectural element. This ramp is designed to accommodate bicycles, allowing cyclists to seamlessly access the building. It also creates interactive spaces, such as bicycle-friendly theaters and bike-themed benches, promoting sustainable transportation and active lifestyles.
