Design the Ride: A skatepark design workshop
Calling all creative thinkers! Get ready for an action-packed morning with the National Organization of Minority Architects, Houston, and Architecture Center of Houston, where design and skateboarding will collide.
What makes a skatepark unforgettable? Is it the bowls, a challenging stair set, a perfect handrail, or a quarter pipe that keeps riders coming back? In this hands-on workshop, students will explore how skateparks are designed to challenge, inspire, and bring communities together.
Students will work in groups to sketch, design, and build elements for a new community skatepark. At the end of the workshop, students will be able to share their designs and receive feedback from architects and use mini skateboards to experience their parks.
Immersed in the current exhibition at the Architecture Center of Houston, Kinetics of Urban Movement, students will be able to draw inspiration from the photographs, 3D-printed models, and skate park sculptures on display. Shane Yee, Rodrigo Gallardo, and Bobby King with Skate Ecosystems will share their experiences designing and riding skateparks.
Workshop Highlights:
- Students will work in teams of 5-6 students.
- Each team member will select a different element to add to the skatepark.
- Students will draw, build, and sculpt their skatepark elements.
- Teams will present their designs to the group, explaining features and design choices.
- Architects & designers will be on hand to guide participants, answer questions, and share experiences.
This interactive event is perfect for students aged 7-12 who are excited to explore the world of architecture and unleash their creativity. Through fun activities and teamwork, participants will learn how to design while developing essential skills in problem-solving, collaboration, and skateboarding culture. Whether you’re already a skater or interested in designing and building, this is your chance to shape the future of Houston’s skate scene—one ramp, rail, and bowl at a time.
Design the Ride: A skatepark design workshop is part of the arcHERtecture workshop series, which encourages girls to explore careers in architecture.
This program is in conjunction with The Kinetics of Urban Movement, on view at the Architecture Center Houston from June 18-September 26.
Exhibition Sponsors and Community Partners
Kinetics of Urban Movement is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance
Cherries Wheels
Honey Skate Club
Houston Parks and Recreation Department
Houston Skate Academy
Select
Skate ECOSYSTEMS
Southside Skatepark
