CONCLUSION

Hospitality and retail buildings have been the focus of a lot of design and planning efforts to make them safer and healthier both during and after the recent pandemic. Outdoor spaces have become more prized and made possible with modular, pedestal deck systems. HVAC systems have been upgraded using VRF technology coupled with high-performance ventilation. Durable, cleanable surfaces have become the norm for interior and exterior surfaces and trim. Security has been enhanced using updated designs for overhead doors and grilles. Altogether, these and other design strategies are helping architects to meet the challenges of a post-pandemic world.

Outdoor Terrace Case Study

Project: Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
Architect: Cooper Carry

The Project: The Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel, located in the heart of downtown Charlotte, North Carolina, is a beacon of modern amenities.

The Challenge: With panoramic views of uptown Charlotte, a rooftop indoor/outdoor event space was needed that could be flexible in terms of spaces and seating areas. The goal was to be able to host and entertain up to 150 guests.

The Solution: The renovated rooftop features the Merchant & Trade bar and uses sleek furniture, artificial turf, and wood deck tiles to create an inviting and warm social scene. The foundation of the rooftop renovation was created using adjustable- and fixed-height pedestals supporting 4x2 and 2x2 smooth ipê wood tiles for the deck surface. The modular wood tiles complement the aesthetics of the space and set the contemporary look, allowing for warm accessories and modern touches.

The Results: This rooftop space not only provides an attraction for guests and patrons, but it also differentiates the hotel from the many other choices in the city.

Pop-Up Park Case Study

Project: Pop-Up Park
Location: New York, New York

The Project: In an attempt to create more open space at Pearl and Broad in New York’s Financial District, community businesses joined forces to create an innovative, temporary mini park. Commonly, businesses that have integrated such “pop-up parks” have seen a 15–20 percent increase in sales, and these New York businesses wanted to pursue that outcome.

The Challenge: Narrow sidewalks and inadequate space are common challenges of adding outdoor seating for restaurant establishments. The physical limitations of the spaces along or adjacent to the streets are a typical concern, but so are the surface materials and sloping unevenness of the streets.

The Solution: This pop-up park extends off the curbside over what were once four parking spaces. It is open to the general public but was financed by adjacent establishments to create curb appeal and provide seating along crowded sidewalks. Adjustable pedestals and ipê wood tiles allow for the creation of a level, smooth decking surface over the uneven and sloping street. The creative, landscaped border uses custom-sized planter cubes with railings between each planter. The installation hardware for this pop-up park decking system is designed to allow for simple dismantling and seasonal storage.

The Results: The modular deck system has low installation and maintenance costs, making them easy for employees to embrace. The pop-up parks also increase visibility of local businesses, creating interest in the street areas and spaces for patrons to safely enjoy.