ARO's cedar and aluminium pavilion in Providence's 195 District Park

New York studio Architecture Research Office has finished a public pavilion in 195 District Park in Providence, Rhode Island, and its placement is the starting point. Because the neighbouring Providence River floods, the building sits on the park's highest ground, which principal Kim Yao told Dezeen let it act as a "beacon" seen from several park entrances.

It is meant as a year-round amenity: two local businesses, an indoor-outdoor dining area and public restrooms, all looking out over the river. A metal frame is clad in cedar as a nod to the area's local architecture, and a broad aluminium canopy on steel columns wraps the building and reaches out over the plaza in front to shade outdoor seating. On top, a sloping green roof helps it settle into the landscape, slows stormwater and hides the mechanical plant.

Inside, the 3,500-square-foot space has exposed wooden joists, with storefront doors on either side that open to the plaza and let air move through in warmer months. The restrooms are at the southern corner, and the pavilion stands beside the curved pedestrian bridge by Inform Studio and Buro Happold that links the parks on either bank.

The article doesn't name the two businesses, so check what's serving before you go; it's a pleasant stop for anyone walking the riverfront.

Our summary of a story from Dezeen, published 6 November 2026. Read the original