2011 has been a great year here at Pillar. Another year filled full of all different types of Action Sports facilities. As 2011 wraps up we would like to look back at some of the most memorable projects of the year.
HISTORIC FOURTH WARD SKATEPARK LOCATED IN ATLANTA, GA
Working with the Beltline organization, the Skatepark was a part of a City wide initiative to revitalize the downtown area. The first free, public Skatepark in Atlanta, Georgia, the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark is a great example of how perseverance, dedication and hardwork do pay off. Working directly with Thomas Taylor, the local Skateshop owner, as well as the Community, members of the Betline Association and Wood+Partners we created this one of kind Skatepark. This 17,000 sq. ft. Skatepark received a lot of press after being selected by the Tony Hawk Foundation for a $25,000 grant and then Hawk himself showing up for the Grand Opening proceedings. Even though we have many parks that received THF funding, this was definitely the most notable.
Hawk said about 4thWard,
“I’m shocked at how big it is,” Hawk, whose philanthropic foundation awarded the project $25,000, told CL between skating and signing autographs. “It’s so expansive and offers something for all skill levels. It’s great.” Reported by Dustin Chambers of Fresh Loaf
CHEROKEE SKATEPARK LOCATED IN CHEROKEE, NC
The Cherokee Skatepark located on Native American land in the mountains of beautiful Cherokee, NC is a dual use park, created for both Skate and BMX and has a little something for everyone. The Cherokee nation recognized the need for a Skatepark facility and at the request of Principal Chief Michell Hicks, Tribal Council approved this state of the art Skatepark built on 3.5 acres. This 13,000 sq. ft. Skatepark was designed with a 50/50 split of street and transitional elements. Working directly with the youth and local skaters of Cherokee we came up with a design that is literally carved out of the mountain side. To show homage to the tribe, we incorporated the tribal logo, a bear claw. The park has been a great success, bringing people from all over North Carolina, Georgia and beyond. A great addition to the other tourist attractions in the area.
The ‘street’ area was well built and creative too, with a bunch of options and lines galore. The peanut bowl is the highlight in my opinion, with great, smooth trannies, pool block, and tile as well. The park is mellow, in a nice area and was full of friendly locals. – Posted by Jeff Greenwood posted on Concrete Disciples
LAKESIDE SKATEPARK LOCATED IN KISSIMMEE, FL 
We are so proud to have been a part of the Lakeside Skatepark and work alongside the City of Kissimmee, Florida. The City knew it was time to upgrade an old, dilapidated, unsafe above ground park but funds were limited and resources were tight. After much research the City contacted Pillar Design Studios, in hopes for some expertise and assistance during the early stages of the project. Pillar aided the City during fundraising and the grant process; once the project was funded, the fun began. This Skatepark is a great example of what can be done with the municipality and community support. We were able to create 10,000 sq. ft. of skate-able surface for just over $100,000 plus in-kind donations. The total size of the Skatepark is 10,000 sq. ft., which includes a 4,000 sq. ft. Skate/BMX park and a 6,000 sq. ft. skate-able connection sidewalk. The skate-able path not only connects the Skatepark to the local neighborhood, offering easy and safe access for the local users, but also to other park amenities and is used by all park participants. We truly believe in creating parks you can skate instead of Skateparks and Lakeside Skatepark is a true testament to this.
This is a thank you email for building Lakeside skate park in Kissimmee, Florida. We are a local skateboard company in Orlando, Fl that is about motivating kids and young adults to go out in skate and enjoy skateboarding no matter what your skill level. We did a small contest at the park last weekend and had no idea what this park is doing for the community. The passion, drive, progression, and heart are just a few words to describe the locals at this park. This park is literally helping kids get off the streets and away from drugs and other crime that surrounds the area. Every time we visit Lakeside skate park we see the amount of skaters/bmx riders double, and the progression and friendship excel. On our behalf and everyone at Lakeside Skate Park, in Kissimmee Florida, we couldn’t thank you enough. Keep up the amazing work, you guys are making a big impact on the communities. – Sent from Andrew Gahlbeck, Owner of Welcome Home Skateboard Co.
HIGH VALLEY SKATE WORLD LOCATED IN HOGDALEN, STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN
The High Valley Skate World Skatepark process was like no other. There was a long and vigorous selection process, which included a Design Competition but after many months and numerous submittals our Design/Build team was selected to move forward on this custom 30,000 sq. ft. Skatepark. The design has been finalized and construction has begun, though on hold for the winter, with a completion date scheduled for 2012 this park will be here before we know it.
We want to thank all of our advocates, clients and team members for their dedication to quality, custom Skateparks. 2011 could not have happened without you. We look forward to 2012 and all that it has to offer. If you have a favorite Pillar park, photos or videos, please feel free to post a comment or send us an email at nicole@pillardesignstudios.com. We would love to hear from you.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM THE PILLAR TEAM
Our office will be closed on Friday, December 23rd and re-opening Tuesday, Jan. 3rd, so our employees can spend the Holidays with their families. We appreciate your understanding.
