Orchard Beach is a spectacular man-made shoreline conceived and built by Robert Moses during the Great Depression. The historic bathhouse, designed by Aymar Emury II, is a modernistic interpretation of a classical style that, despite its monumental presence, was built of humble materials: architectural concrete, brick, limestone, and glazed terra cotta. The purpose of Urbahn’s redevelopment plan was to bring new life and meaning to this cherished community landmark.
Our multidisciplinary team developed master plans for several scenarios, ranging from restoration and adaptive reuse of the original bathhouse, to a complete replacement of the structures with modern facilities. The master plan programs include dining, concessions, event spaces, educational space, a natatorium, a multi-sport indoor recreation center, a roof-top amphitheater and extensive improvements to the surrounding Pelham Bay Park. In addition to historic preservation, the renovation concepts focused on flood resiliency, accessibility, and code compliance.