Hudson

The Poughkeepsie Design Center is a multi-use complex along the Hudson River. Designed to foster a deeper understanding of circularity in both design and daily life, the center integrates three key functions: a Public Library, a Design Market, and a Re-Use Center. Addressing one of Poughkeepsie’s core urban challenges, the design prioritizes pedestrians over private vehicles.

A central ramp forms a key circulation element, creating a direct link between the train station atop the sloped site and the city’s underutilized waterfront. The spatial organization incorporates green spaces, water features, and walkways, concealing required loading zones, parking areas, and drop-off points. These elements engage with adjacent landmarks, including an existing park across the inlet and the Walkway Over the Hudson, one of Poughkeepsie’s most significant tourist destinations.

Arriving at the complex is an experience in itself, reflecting the diversity of its program. The three buildings, the Public Library, Design Market, and Re-Use Center, are unified by a central ramp and plaza, which provide entrance to the spaces whilst extending toward views of the Hudson. The elevated library is designed to be floating above the river, detached from reality. In contrast, the Design Market and Re-Use Center are grounded, with industrial character, tall ceilings and open floor plans that accommodate vendors and storage of materials.