The Folding Boat Community Center

This multifunctional design serves as a collegiate rowing sports hub, a local community center, and a museum dedicated to celebrating the art and heritage of rowing. The structure’s striking folded metal roof not only provides dynamic shelter but also blurs the distinction between walls and ceilings, creating an interior that feels fluid and harmonious. Rooted in its urban context, the project balances historical richness with modern innovation, honoring its diverse functions while embracing the character of the surrounding Bronx neighborhood.

Inspired by the rolling topography of its site, The Folding Boat reimagines the architectural potential of folding. This design approach reflects the natural contours of the environment and introduces an elevated aesthetic. By seamlessly integrating folds and angles into the structure, the architecture establishes a dialogue between built form and landscape, creating a cohesive and visually captivating environment.

The project’s conceptual foundation lies in the integration of folding as a design language, influencing its spatial organization and visual identity. As a community hub, sports facility, and museum, The Folding Boat explores how folding techniques can transform spaces, enhance functionality, and inspire creativity.

Through rigorous research, case studies, and bold experimentation, Xuechen Chen and X.C Studio push the boundaries of architectural design, demonstrating how folding can serve as both an artistic expression and a functional tool. This project envisions a space where aesthetics and purpose intertwine, fostering a sense of unity and community.

More than just a conceptual design, The Folding Boat aspires to redefine the role of architecture in the Bronx. It represents the potential of thoughtful design to inspire, connect, and enrich a community, creating a place where people can gather, celebrate, and grow together.