Naomi Darling Architecture
Sunderland Kayak Kiosk
Sunderland, MA
2019 - 2022 & 2024
Awarded:
2024 AIA Western Massachusetts Citation Award
2025 AIA New England Award
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Project Team:
Naomi Darling - Principal
Ray Mann - Principal
Nicole De Araujo
Leonard Morse Fortier - Concept Structural Engineer
Simpson Gumpertz & Heger - Structural Engineer
General Contractor: Marois Construction Co.​
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Photography: Sean Kernan
The Sunderland Riverside Park improvements were initiated by the director of the Sunderland Public Library who wanted to provide patrons with the ability to check out kayaks and enjoy access to the Connecticut River. Over time, the project evolved to include not only a place for the kayaks, but a storage area to replace the existing shed for the park landscaping and maintenance equipment, storage for Sunderland Youth Baseball, and a renovation of the existing restroom facilities.
Begun in 2019, the Kayak Storage project was initially assigned as a short studio exercise for senior undergrads. The student proposals were presented to the public at a library open house and the design team integrated community input at the start of design. The project ultimately combined the kayak storage program into a pavilion with a maintenance and storage shed at the rear and a roof canopy providing a shaded area for people to picnic or watch the baseball games. The three kayak storage boxes double as seating and picnic tables between the boxes provide a place for community gathering.
The project was funded by the Town of Sunderland with CPA (Community Preservation Act) funds with additional ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds for the Kayak Kiosk. The grant application and oversight were undertaken by the public library with support from the Recreation Department and Sunderland Youth Baseball. The initial budget for both projects was established pre-covid and when funds ultimately fell short, the design team and community volunteers worked together to complete the picnic tables and screens.
