Today we would like to feature Andy Neal, psychology teacher and avid Skateboarder for making a difference in his community. Andy is a good friend of Pillar Design Studios. Recently we completed a skateable swimming bowl in his backyard with Artisan Skateparks and are happy to share his mission with our readers.

Due to Andy’s love for art, he has always wanted to start a scholarship program, as a result Art –Space was conceived. Art Space is a student club that creates galleries where work is displayed and ultimately sold. Half of the proceeds go to the artist and the other half to a scholarship fund. The Edison Art Space Scholarship fund is for senior art students looking to purse art in college. To qualify for the scholarship the student must have a piece of artwork selected for Art Space, a minimum 3.0 GPA in art class and a 2.5 or higher GPA in core academic courses.

This past opening was a huge success with more than seven students selling pieces. The theme of the night, “Skart”, Skart is an industry term for Skateboard artwork; it is rapidly growing in popularity and profitability. Skateboarding is a creative process, much more in depth than just performing stunts; there is an artistic approach involved. Art has shaped and evolved the Skate culture of today, so what better way to pay respect to the relationship between Skateboarding and the Artistic mindset then a Skart show. Andy Neal, Co-founder of Art Space, gathered his own used boards and donated them as the canvas for the Feb. 2nd opening, giving the students free rein as long as it was suitable for the classroom.

The Skart showing featured 20 skateboards and drew over 100 visitors. Each skateboard was on sale for $50 with the show raising $750 for the scholarship fund. Each board unique, no two boards the same, resulted in an amazing collection. One board by Anna Lisa Sheldahl featured a Koi pond, illustrating depth and color, while another board provided a unique representation of a Muslim woman in a Burqa peering from behind a wall.

We commend Andy in his dedication to not only the Skate Industry but the young, local artist community as well. Art Space provides young artist the opportunity to show their work, hear positive feedback and ultimately boost self-esteem. Thank you Andy for being a positive role model for the Skate community and showing us all it is possible to make a difference!

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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]

If you build a skatepark, skateboarders will come. Gentry, AR skate spot may only be 3,000 sq. ft. but you sure wouldn’t know it by the number of Skaters visiting. Skaters from Bella Vista, Bentonville, Siloam Springs and Springville Arkansas are coming to ride the Gentry Skate Spot.

Due to the vast and overwhelming success of the Skate spot Pillar Design Studios is pleased to announce a wave walk and two more quarter pipes have been added. The Gentry skateboarders have taken great pride in this skate spot skatepark and we hope to be able to add more in the future.

Remember no matter your size or budget, a concrete skatepark is an option. For more information on how you can get a concrete park in your area contact us via email.

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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]

There has been a new trend over the past few years which we are happy to be a part of. Many skaters have decided to design and build skateable swimming bowls.

SWIMMING BOWLS are a dual use backyard structures offering a swimming pool for summer use and a skate-able bowl for winter use. Due to their size and cost, anyone from Pro-Skaters to amateur Skaters can practice their sport from the comfort of their own backyard with their private dual-purposed skatepark.

AVERAGE STATS:
Size: 1,500 sq. ft.
Cost: $45,000

Check out our latest backyard skateboarding adventure - For more information on Skateable Swimming Bowls or how you can get a Skatepark in your area please contact Nicole Licari via email

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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]

As we near the end of 2010 we are very thankful to have worked with some of the most dedicated, artistic and genuine people this past year. Pillar Design Studios is pleased to say that we opened 7 skateparks in 2010 with numerous currently under construction as well in the skatepark design phase. Though each and every project has its rewards below we have highlighted a few that stood out in 2010.

Gentry, AR Skate Spot

This project is a great example of no matter the size or budget you have; you can always get a quality concrete skatepark. We would like to thank Jim Koostra at Architects Incorporated for being so easy to work with and understanding the need for Skatepark specialist. By working with a local general contractor during construction the final cost of this 2,250 sq.ft. skate spot was $70,000. (Read More About The Gentry, AS Skate Spot)

Skatepark of Baltimore

When Stephanie Murdock of Skatepark of Baltimore contacted us four years ago we were happy to help in any way we could. By providing her with a 3D masterplan and conceptual design, she was able to fundraise and gain support for this project which was so near and dear to her heart. Her steadfast efforts have finally paid off; we began the design phase late in 2010. (Read More About Stephanie Murdock and Skatepark of Baltimore)

Private Backyard Swimming Bowl Skatepark

Our team thoroughly enjoyed working on this backyard bowl.  Though we cannot tell you the location of the residence, we are happy to continue to bring quality facilities throughout the East Coast. (Read More About This Project in Our Backyard Skatepark Article)

Mt. Airy, NC Skatepark

This 6,000 sq. ft. Skatepark was yet another Pillar/Artisan Skatepark Design Build project. By working with the local community and incorporating over $60,000 of in-kind donations we were able to reduce the overall cost to the client in half. Thank you Artisan Skateparks for your dedication and ingenuity, we hope to continue to complete numerous Design Build projects with you in the New Year.

Finally, we would like to thank all you Action Sports and Skatepark Advocates for your support. Continue to educate and urge your City government about the need for a Action Sports facility in your hometown, without you none of this is possible.

Happy Holidays from the Pillar Design Studios team.

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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]

Since we often are asked the same questions regarding Skatepark facilities, we wanted to post a few of our most common Q & A’s for our readers.

Skatepark FAQ

Question: What type of skatepark is the best; steel, modular, concrete?
Answer: Concrete skateparks are  by far the superior facilities. They have a longer life span, they produce less noise, they provide the best riding surface for the user and they require the least amount of maintenance. We do feel there is a place for all kinds of Skatepark facilities, the key is to analyze your needs and wants and have a qualified and experienced Skatepark Design Firm involved throughout the life of the project.

Question: We only have $75,000 is it possible to get a concrete park with that?
Answer: YES, we can design and build to any budget! With limited funding such as $75,000 we would recommend our Skate Spot program and or designing your project into phases. With either option you are able to build a usable Skatepark that can be added on to at a later date. (Skate Spot information)

Question: What if the kids get bored?
Answer: Skateboarding is just like any other sport in the fact that users need a dedicated place to practice but it is very different in that the design and construction of the facility directly affects the success of the park. A well-planned skatepark should engage, challenge and continually stimulate the users, whether it is the first or hundredth time at the park. Check out our previous post – How to Select a Qualified Skatepark Designer for more information.

Question: We have an existing slab from an unused recreational facility, can this be transformed into a Concrete Skatepark.
Answer: Yes, there are many options available regarding re-purposing old un-used recreation facilities. Please contact Nicole Licari via email at nicole@pillardesignstudios.com for more detailed information.

Question: Doesn’t concrete cost much more than modular skateparks.
Answer: No, this is a huge misconception. There are many variables that go into the cost of a park; labor, materials, site conditions, etc. When receiving a quote for your Skatepark facility make sure to get a turnkey cost, design, labor, installation, equipment, shipping, etc. Comparing apples to apples is key. Another important fact to remember is skate-able square footage; in order to compare the cost correctly you must also be comparing the same size park. Please see our modular vs concrete blog post for more information.

Did we miss anything? Leave a comment with any additional questions and we’ll be happy to address them for you.

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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]

Andy Neal contracted Artisan Skateparks to build a backyard bowl in Maryland that doubles as a swimming pool. When Pillar Design Studios got the call from Artisan to help with the skatepark design build we were in from the jump.

This is a skatepark project that was truly built by skateboarders for skateboarders. Thanks to Andy Neal, Andy Duck and the Artisan Skatepark crew for letting us be involved. (And thanks for the fun session last week.)

More photos of Andy’s pool can also be found on Concrete Disciples.
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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]

Recently, there has been a common question from clients: What is the best method for our city to acquire a public skatepark? Design/Build or the Design-bid-build approach? Pillar Design Studios wants to ensure every municipality, community and or private organization looking to build a skatepark is properly informed.

Skatepark Design Bid Build

The skatepark design bid build approach has been the method used for the majority of the U.S. public skateparks. The design-bid-build approach has three key advantages:

1. A Professional Landscape Architect that specializes in skatepark design and skatepark construction will lead the project. The advantage to the client is the fact that a Landscape Architect is able to seal their own drawings, has extensive knowledge on the skatepark construction process, has worked with municipalities, communities and the public process and is able to reduce skatepark design liability for the client. By setting the criteria high with expertise and experience you are assured the best possible fit for your community.

2. The Contractor awarded the skatepark construction is selected through the public bid process, guaranteeing only qualified skatepark contractors can apply. For the project to be built per plan the contractor needs to be licensed, bonded and insured – as well as posses the experience necessary to construct the park. There is always the option of choosing a qualified specialty skatepark contractor who will work under the local general contractor and completed the specialty services such as fine grading, coping fabrication and installation, shotcrete application and shotcrete finishing. This is often appealing to municipalities since the majority of the labor is local.

3. The Skatepark Design Firm’s assistance during the construction process is a crucial asset. Being available to answer any questions or address concerns during the critical stages of construction will eliminate any miscommunications and protect the integrity of the project. Often, the design of the park can be changed during construction which can cause the price to increase and or the design structure to be compromised. With the Designer visiting the project site at key stages, the client is protected from any unwarranted changes on the field as the skatepark build progresses.

Skatepark Design Build

The Skatepark Design Build approach has become a popular trend in the past few years. There are advantages to this approach if a qualified company (team) is selected to head up the project. Please keep in mind that a team of professionals from a Landscape Architecture firm as well as a general contractor can also provide Skatepark Design/Build services, it is not necessary to limit your choices by choosing from Design/Build companies only.

1. The City is able to reduce administrative fees due to the fact that only one RFP/RFQ process will be going held, instead of two, thus cutting the administrative time and efforts in half. An added benefit is that the city is able to deal with one main point of contact throughout the entire project; usually the contractor is the lead on a Skate Park Design/Build project, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be that way.

2. Another advantage is the time saving abilities. If the entire project is completely funded, the City has the option to begin the initial skatepark construction before the construction documents have been completed. This can be valuable if the project has time restrictions.

Often Cities are not aware of the risks or disadvantages of the Design/Build approach. Being completely informed and educated on the process will and can circumvent any unfortunate surprises/problems later on.

Laws and regulations were put in place to prevent unqualified individuals or companies to design recreational facilities. Thus making it illegal to design skateparks without proper licensure and insurance, rules and regulations vary from state to state. This approach provided a way for design/build companies to get around these rules and regulations that govern licensed designers. Usually, design/build companies do not have the knowledge or practical expertise in Landscape Architecture, they do not prepare or seal construction documents nor do they have the proper insurance needed to protect the client.

There is no way to compare cost between the two services. Each skatepark is unique; there are many variables that can modify the skatepark cost. Such as site location, lighting, amenities, etc.

When using the Skatepark Design Bid Build approach from a qualified   you are given a breakdown of fee’s and charges as well as estimates on the construction cost through out the design phase. This ensures the design created and approved by the municipality, community and or private organization is also the park that will be constructed. Not only is the actual skatepark cost broken down, but the entire project such as lighting, restrooms, landscaping, etc. as well.

When using the Skatepark Design/Build approach the entire contracted amount goes to the Design/Build Company, making it difficult to compare services. The amenities are not always included in the contract and or estimate provided. As a result the contractor does not complete the project in its entirety, leaving the burden on the client. The client must know exactly what services are included, ask questions and make sure the estimate provided covers everything needed.

Overall, the most important issue is not which method you choose but to make sure that each and every firm hired for the project has experience in skatepark design and skatepark construction, they are licensed in their profession and have the expertise needed to complete the project successfully. It is imperative that you keep in mind when choosing a qualified Landscape Architect for your public skatepark they must have comprehensive knowledge of skate/bmx park design. Choosing a designer that has experience in skateboarding or BMX riding is key to the success and efficiency of your park. Understanding and knowing your options will ensure you have the best end result…A world class facility that your community will enjoy for years to come.

For more information about the public skatepark process please contact Pillar Design Studios at 888.880.5112 or at info@pillardesignstudios.com

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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]

There are numerous companies that specialize in Skatepark Design Build. Before you make the decision on which company to hire it is imperative to do your research and find out which firm will fit your needs and desires.

How To Hire a Skatepark Designer

Your first step in this process is to consider what type of park is best for you, such as a Concrete Skatepark etc.  Once this is decided narrow your search for firms that handle that specific type of skatepark.

Now, how will the project be carried out, will this be a design only project or a design bid build project. This depends not only on the funding but also the entity or owner of the Park. The decision on which process to choose should be based on your needs and the funding that is available to the project.

Once you have decided on the type of skatepark and the process you would like to take, you can begin in depth research on the firms that handle the type and process you are looking for.

Here are a few key questions to ask when researching the Skatepark firms:

• Are your skatepark designers also skateboarders?
• What is their background and skatepark experience?
• Who will be my Project Manager?
• How many skatepark design build projects have they managed and will they be my main point of contact?
• Are they a full service firm? (All services provided by in house staff)
• What skatepark design services do they offer? Does the skatepark design firm provide a full set of construction documents? Sealed, stamped and will pass the city process.
• Does the design firm carry Errors & Omission and General Liability insurance which is necessary to protect from design flaws.
• Will our skatepark be a custom design or a recycled design?

Selecting a specialty skatepark firm with a spotless reputation will ensure delivery of a quality project on time and within budget.

For more information about Pillar Design Studios or how to get a public skatepark email: nicole@pillardesignstudios.com or check out our website: www.pillardesignstudios.com

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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]



Skatepark advocates help get local skateparks designed and built. Stephanie Murdock, local Baltimore skateboarder, got involved and is helping create a safe place for the youth of Baltimore to skate.

Pillar Design Studios is proud to be a part of the Baltimore Skatepark project. Please click here and read Stephanie Murdock’s, Baltimore skatepark advocate full profile and story.

Are you a skatepark advocate for your community that needs help? Please contact Pillar Design Studios for more information about the skatepark design build process by contacting us via email. nicole@pillardesignstudios.com.

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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]

Thanks for making Pillar Design Studios‘ blog one of the most popular skatepark design build blogs going. To make sure we stay on point, we want to know what type of content is most valuable to you our readers.

Take a minute and answer the poll question below and tell us! The poll is open for two weeks. After the skatepark design content poll closes, we’ll tailor our blog posts to your answers.

Thanks again in helping us make the best site possible to address all your skatepark design, skatepark build and skatepark issues.

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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]

We often hear “Concrete is just not in the budget”. It is a common misconception this is the most expensive type of Skatepark. There are many factors that determine the cost of a Skatepark, such as existing site conditions, design style, etc. By using local resources, materials and or labor it is possible to get a poured-in-place CONCRETE Skatepark for the same price as a modular or pre-cast park. Pillar has implemented numerous programs to help communities get quality poured–in-place CONCRETE skateparks for under $100,000.

Understanding your options are a MUST, below are a few key principals to get you started:

•     Hire an experienced Designer, who can provide you with a complete set of Blueprints

•     Make sure ANY Contractor can follow your Skatepark Construction Documents

•     Use your local resources, ask for discounts and donations

•     Design what you can afford to build, by phasing the design into usable section

The Gentry, Arkansas Skatepark is a great example of what can be accomplished with the right team in place:

Gentry Arkansas realized they were in need of a Skatepark.  The town was interested in a concrete park, due to the quality, longevity and reduced noise. The question was, “what can we get for the budget”. We developed this 3,100 sq. ft. skate spot as the solution. This skate spot is one out of a proposed three skate spots that will eventually create a large Skatepark facility. By phasing the project into three usable and affordable options, the City was able to complete Phase 1 and give the locals a place to Skate while fundraising continues. After the design and plans were completed the project went out to bid.  By working with a local General contractor (under the supervision of Pillar) the park was built for $71,000.

Both the Contractor and I were very pleased with Pillar Design Studios and how they worked with us when we needed latitude during the construction process. It simplified the skatepark construction process. – Thank You.”  Jim Kooistra, Architects Incorporated

*Construction costs can range depending on who you hire to build your park.  It is very important that a skatepark specialist is involved in all aspects of the design and construction of your skatepark.

*In this case the Town of Gentry decided to work with a local general contractor. In doing so, they were able to eliminate costs such as mobilization, shipping and travel fees associated with out of state vendors/contractors which in return meant more funds went back into their Skatepark.

There are many benefits to starting with a smaller Skatepark; affordability, less land needed, a much simpler construction process, providing a usable space while continuing to fundraise and much more. We hope that municipalities and communities all across the United States see that there is always a way to give your community a quality poured-in-place CONCRETE facility.

We are currently working on two other Skate Spots that will be completed for under $100,000.

There are many options available to you, do your homework, make sure you compare apples to apples and the dream of a CONCRETE facility can be a reality. For more information on any size Skatepark or for Skatepark Design questions please contact me at nicole@pillardesignstudios.com.

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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]

[Recently we did an interview with Greg Taylor of TMC Interactive for an upcoming article on digital marketing and the action sports industry. The following is an except from the interview. We wanted everyone to get to know our company a little better  - so with permission we decided to publish a portion about skateboarding and skatepark design.]

Pillar Design Studios was founded in 2006 by Brad Siedlecki. Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service and the ability to delivery progressive skatepark designs.

Pillar Design has employed the simple philosophy of creating skateparks that blend with its current surroundings while incorporating local culture , hiring local labor when appropriate and engaging local skateboarders for design input.

Siedlecki is someone who shuns the spotlight took a couple of minutes to answer some questions about is background, his skatepark design firm and the future of skateparks.

Where did you grow up? “I grew up in Oswego, NY – which is located in central NY on Lake Ontario.”

How long have you been active in skateboarding? “This year marks my 20th year as a skateboarder.”

What was the skate scene like growing up in Oswego? “There were only about 10 of us who skated. So, as you can imagine our scene was very small.”

Coming from such a small skate scene – what made you want to pursue skatepark design? “We had nothing to skate growing up so we had to build everything ourselves.  There’s something about building something then skating it…it’s more rewarding.  I still say that building ramps as a kid was one of the main things that led me to Arizona State University to study Architecture.”

What is your favorite part of skatepark design? “There are multiple parts that I enjoy when it comes to skatepark design build projects. I enjoying be able to strike a balance when designing a park between my background as a skateboarding and my formal training as a landscape architect. Pillar Design Studios, as a company, really enjoys the community interaction and getting input from local skaters about design elements and what they want in their local skatepark. Other parts that are rewarding are when I actually get to skate something that once only existed on paper as a design and then there’s the grand openings and watching the  local skaters enjoy the park – which is always cool.”

Do you have a favorite design from over the years? “My favorite park is always the one we’re building. Currently the Falling Creek Skatepark in Bedford, VA is under construction and close to completion.”

Where do you see skatepark design and skatepark build going? “I see skatepark design and build going in many different directions, but we try to stay true to where we came from and where we want to go. We try to provide something for every style of skating in every park Pillar builds.  Skateboarding is not one dimensional for me.”

Brad, thanks for your time and giving everyone a little bit of insight into Pillar Design Studios.

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We’ll post the article in its entirety when it’s published here on skatepark-blog.com.

Pillar Design Studios can also be found on Twitter and Facebook. For more information on getting a skatepark for your community or the skatepark design build process, please contact  nicole@pillardesignstudios.com

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If you found this article helpful or of value please click the Facebook ‘like’ button. You may also consider joining our Facebook community for more information about skatepark design build, skatepark construction progress, action sports facilities and general fun.

[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]

In the skatepark community no one has done more for low-income and high risk urban areas than the Tony Hawk Foundation. Tony and his team, have worked tirelessly not only to make sure that funds are available to build skateparks but also that skatepark design firms use a reputable skatepark builder for each project.

Pillar Design Studios is proud to be a part of Atlanta’s Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark project made possible through grants by the Hawk Foundation. To learn more about this project please visit the Hawk Foundation’s site.

(Here’s a link to a great interview of Miki from the Hawk Foundation from Executive Edits)

For more information on getting a skatepark for your community or the skatepark design build process, please contact  nicole@pillardesignstudios.com
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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]

Northside Skatepark in Norfolk, VA officially opened on October 2nd, 2010. Skateboarders in Norfolk now have a safe and legal place to skate.

One group looking forward to using the park is the Maury Skateboard Club. The high school organization meets weekly to discuss skateboarding trends, demonstrate techniques and exchange tips. The groups sponsor, teacher Rich Presas, said providing open space helps ease the stereotype that all skateboarders damage property, spray graffiti or cause other annoyances.I’ll stand by my students, he said. Theyre very smart and intelligent. Theyre good kids.

Providing a safe and fun environment for skateboarding and biking helps promote healthy athletic activity, says Darrell Crittendon, director of the city recreation department. (Please visit hamptonroads.com for more information on the locals reaction the new skatepark in Norfolk, VA)

Pillar Design Studios is proud to help the skateboarders of Norfolk. Enjoy your skatepark and keep the skate videos coming!

Let us know what you think. Have you visited the new Northside Skatepark in Norfolk, VA? What are your thoughts on the design and construction of the skatepark?

For more information on Skatepark facilities and how Pillar Design Studios can help your community get a skatepark, please contact  nicole@pillardesignstudios.com

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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]

The Pillar Design Studios approach has always been LOCAL, LOCAL, LOCAL. We understand and believe in the power your local community has. With today’s economic climate the importance of community involvement becomes even more prevalent.

Our approach not only puts funds back into your local economy but also provides opportunity for integration of discounts and in-kind donations. With our process, our Design/Build team works with a local general contractor. This way we are able to provide our clients with the expertise and know-how of Skatepark Design and Construction, while providing local labors, equipment rentals, etc an opportunity to work on the project.

Whether it be hiring local labors for positions such as form work, rebar installation, site cleanup, painting, pressure washing, and caulking, or purchasing local materials, food, acquiring lodging and local equipment rentals. When working with our team we guarantee over 70% of the funds for your project go back to local companies.

A Skatepark facility should be considered a good investment that will have positive long-term impact on your community’s economic growth. The feedback we have received from municipalities and Skatepark managers is that Skateparks draw people from surrounding areas. The Skatepark not only brings children and youth but also their families, which means a rise in revenue for shops, restaurants, gas stations, etc. for the local community.

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For more information on Skatepark facilities and how we can help your community, please contact  nicole@pillardesignstudios.com

In so many under developed communities kids are looking for an outlet for their energy and angst. Richmond, CA is no exception. Pillar Design Studio’s skatepark gives these kids an outlet to expend their energy, learn from one another and come together as a community.

Please read this article and watch the video posted in the Richmond Confidential and hear what they have to say first hand.

(Richmond Confidential :Youth find cross-cultural kinship at Nicholl Park)

For more information on Skatepark facilities and how we can help your community, please contact  nicole@pillardesignstudios.com

Thrasher Magazine decided to stop by Pillar Design Studios‘ skatepark in Raleigh, NC on the second stop of their Skate Rock tour. What do you get when you mix ripping skaters with a world class concrete skatepark, music and fireworks? Click to see for yourself… (video hosted on Thrasher Magazine’s site)

For more information on Skatepark facilities and how we can help your community, please contact  nicole@pillardesignstudios.com

Lately, there has been a lot of discussion about skatepark warranties. We would be remiss to not address this new trend in the Industry. Pillar Design Studios did some research on the different warranties offered for concrete facilities. Whether it is a poured-in-place or a pre cast park, we understand the time, effort and money that goes into a Skatepark facility and the importance of a quality end product. If you are being offered a warranty, make sure you are informed of all the details covered in that warranty.

The definition of warranty is a guarantee, a written assurance that some product or service will be provided or will meet certain specifications. That leaves much to interperation; here are a few things to consider when looking at any warranty;

• Items not covered
• What is considered normal wear and tear
• What does the replacement include, installation/labor, removal, shipping (if necessary)

Up until recently the industry standard on a concrete facility has been; one (1) to two (2) year unconditional warranty from defects in workmanship and material quality, not caused by normal wear and tear. Guaranteeing all approved materials to be new and free from defect. This is what we would consider a short-term all encompassing warranty, offering removal and replacement (ie labor, materials), leaving the client with a skate-able quality facility.

Lately, with the introduction of Pre-Cast parks, we have seen a new type of warranty that is fifteen (15) to twenty (20) years. Typically, offering a five (5) year warranty, then a ten (10) to (15) year limited warranty. This would be a long-term warranty with numerous limitations.

After doing some research and speaking to clients, we have made a few surprising discoveries regarding these so called long term warranties (15 to 20 years).

#1 – Only the piece in question is covered, meaning the client is responsible for freight, installation, removal and all flat work need to seamlessly replace the defective product.

#2 – The warranty does not include environmental and or site condition issues, such as concrete settling.

#3 – A monthly maintenance check list is required in order for the warranty to stay valid.

We are perplexed as to how a company can warrant a piece of the Skatepark leaving the park un-usable and the necessary construction needed to fix the park at the owner’s expense. Shipping large pieces of concrete can be an exuberant amount of money. But even more astonishing is that the removal and disposal of the defective piece is also not covered, meaning a specialty company will need to be hired to remove and dispose of the defective piece(s).  Finally, the owner must hire someone to then seamlessly fit the new piece to the existing Skatepark.

In regards to site conditions and environment, if a park settles and or shifts, it is possible the necessary reviews and precautions were not taken during the design phase, ie a Geo-Technical Report. This is yet just another example of why it is IMPARTIVE to have a qualified, licensed designer handle the design. If a Geo has been completed and the soil was conducive to concrete construction, then settling would be a sign of insufficient compaction. Either way, should the owner be responsible for the hired companies neglect to proper procedures and protocols?

As a design firm, we want to offer our clients the best, most feasible option for them and their community. Anyone doing their due diligence would be interested in hearing about a long-term warranty but we feel it is our duty to inform our clients and possible clients of the limitations of these types of warranties.

Concrete facilities designed and constructed properly will stand the test of time, normal wear and tear will occur but minimal maintenance is needed to keep your Skatepark in great condition. Quarterly reviews of caulk and sealant, riding surfaces for divots and chips (larger than ¼), coping and rails as well as the removal of debris and dirt (when necessary) is what consist with normal maintenance a concrete facility.

Whatever type of park fits your community best, we urge you to not be mystified by the long-term warranties. Make sure you have a qualified, licensed professional that stands behind the design and an experience specialty construction company that can attest their quality and longevity; then the need for the warranty becomes a bonus instead of a safety net.

For more information on Skatepark facilities and how we can help your community, please contact me at nicole@pillardesignstudios.com.

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[About us: Pillar Design Studios, based in Tempe, AZ is a design/build landscape architecture firm specializing in both public and private skatepark facilities. Led by Brad Siedlecki, Pillar Design’s reputation has been built on integrity, quality of service, the ability to deliver progressive designs and impeccable skill in construction document production.]

Here’s some awesome BMX footage from the Bethune Point Skatepark in Daytona Beach, FL. Pillar Design Studios served as Skatepark Designer and Landscape Architect on this project. The park was built by Breaking Ground Contractors using some pre-cast elements from Spohn Ranch.

For more information on Bethune Point Skatepark please visit Bethune Point’s page on Pillar Design’s website.

Is your community looking for a world class action sports facility? Contact nicole@pillardesignstudios.com and she’ll get you started on the skatepark design build process.

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The Pillar Design Studios‘ blog was launched in January of 2010 to inform, aid and educated our followers, communities, municipalities and users alike regarding the Action Sports Industry. We strive to provide concrete ideas, information and tools regarding Skate, BMX and Moto to our readers.

We were recently contacted by Online Schools, to let us know that we have been selected as one of the top Skateboarding Blogs in 2010! The award recognizes the very best blogs to learn about skateboarding. Awards were given out to blogs in the 99% percentile (meaning only the top 1% of blogs receive awards). The blogs were rated by 20 different attributes, including content, frequency of updates, amount of advertising, length of posts, and readability.

We thank you for your continued support and strive to continually bring you up to date and informative information. To learn more about Online Schools and their criteria go to www.onlineschools.org/top_skateboarding/about/.

To hear how we can help you and your community during the Skatepark process, contact me at nicole@pillardesignstudios.com.