desert forms influence sandy pink concrete skatepark on the northern border of mexico

designed with the collaboration of unam facultad de arquitectura and landscape architects valia wright sánchez and eduardo peón velázquez with architect francisco elías of elías group, la duna skatepark is the new proposal for a public space dedicated to sports on the northern border of mexico. the park takes part in a governmental urban improvement program to expand marginalized neighborhoods. its form is influenced by references to the desert intended to evoke the samalayuca dune fields in chihuahua.

all images by onnis luque

the project in collaboration with UNAM facultad de arquitectura + sedatu + valia wright sánchez + eduardo peón velázquez + elías group includes a skating rink, classrooms for workshops, and an administration building. the team drew inspiration from the nearby samalayuca dunes to create the curved, organic shapes of the skatepark’s architectural landscape. for the materialization of this space, a high-tech concrete was selected to achieve a smooth and continuous surface, with the possibility of having a color that integrates it with the sand, a material found on the site and that surrounds this area of the city.

on the upper level of the main building, a viewing platform takes place offering wide views of the cityscape and the horizon beyond. it is also a multipurpose space for events and an observatory for the skating activities below. made of dusty pink concrete, this example of skatepark architecture is a striking urban landmark, with its curves, slopes, and planting, which will mature to provide shading and an important green element. the generous facilities can accommodate up to 5,000 guests.

the skate park is divided into three sections, each one destined to the practice of skateboarding modalities: the first to bowling, the second to the style. street and the third with various obstacles for beginners in this sport, this area has an amphitheater where adults can rest while children practice in the obstacles. on the perimeter, the extension of the bike path connects this space with the entire park and parking areas, integrating the dune into the natural route of this recreational space.

image by felipe luna

project info:

name: la duna skatepark

designers: UNAM facultad de arquitectura + sedatu + valia wright sánchez + eduardo peón velázquez + elías group

location: mexico

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edited by: yasmina karam | designboom