Coachella Community Center
SITE ANALYSIS
MASTER PLANNING
ARCHITECTURE
DEVELOPMENT CONSULTING
INTERIORS
ART & DESIGN
BRANDING
LOCATION: COACHELLA, CALIFORNIA
SIZE: 2 ACRES
STATUS: DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT
PARTNERS / COLLABORATORS: Konkuey Design Initiative
PROGRAM: Renovation and expansion of the former City Hall into a multi-use community center
Collaborating with Konkuey Design Initiative (KDI), a nonprofit design, planning, and community engagement firm, BDG engaged in a dynamic process to develop the master plan for converting the vacant City Hall in downtown Coachella into a multi-use community center, nonprofit hub, and public plaza.
Through multiple outreach events, a program was developed to address the specific needs of this vibrant, multicultural, and largely lower-income population. The proposed scope renovates and expands the City Hall building to provide shared workspace for nonprofits, a multipurpose room for classes and events, a teen center, daycare, co-working space, event hall, and a commercial kitchen for training and food truck/street vendor prep. The expansive site also includes a public plaza, community gardens, sculpture gardens, an art alley, and park space.
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An extensive community engagement campaign informed the development of a program responsive to both the site and local residents, addressing their most pressing needs while supporting economic, social, and cultural growth for the city.
The design approach honors the iconic architecture of the City Hall building and the distinct character of the local context. Increased floor areas and ceiling heights showcase large expanses of glass to maximize natural light. An additional story on the annex building accommodates expanded program space and connects to the main building via an atrium featuring local art and plantings. Multiple outdoor gardens and gathering areas support a range of uses, while incorporating sustainable strategies—and much-needed shade—for the desert climate.
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