Arnos vale
A REGENERATIVE STRATEGY FOR A MODERN CITY
Our project, selected as the winning concept for the International competition to reimagine Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ abandoned airport in Arnos Vale, envisions a thriving new resilient urban district that embraces its tropical waterfront setting. To goal is to create a flourishing, sustainable urban environment that prioritizes community, open spaces, and climate resilience.
Central to this vision is the transformation of the former airstrip into a multifunctional central park, creating a vibrant destination for residents, workers, and visitors with a linear organization that speaks to its history. The design integrates layered landscape networks that frame diverse building types, including new housing, retail, cultural amenities, and tourism facilities.
The project features a double-sided canal boulevard and new development clusters in underutilized areas, culminating in a stunning waterfront that serves as both a public destination and a storm surge barrier. The scheme includes comprehensive multi-modal transportation network that ensures seamless connectivity across the city.
Public spaces are designed for social interaction and climate comfort, with shaded areas replacing open plazas. Cultural and institutional destinations with modern, tropical architecture, create dynamic districts. The expanded framework includes hillside villas, a cultural and art center, higher education facilities, and high-density housing, alongside enhanced retail, government, and transportation hubs. Our In all these ways, the project strikes a balance between economic growth, environmental stewardship, and community well-being.
client
Ministry of Urban Development
location
Saint Vincent & Grenadines
TEAM
Stoss
Charles Waldheim Architecture
SOM
HR&A Advisors
Julie Eaton Ernst
Dr. D Brent Bailey
Timeline
2023 - Ongoing
Status
Planning
Size
150 acres
Climate resilience is central to the plan, addressing extreme heat, flooding, sea level rise, and biodiversity loss. A layered boardwalk system serves as coastal defense, with a lower boardwalk engineered to flood during storm surges, protecting the upper boardwalk from future sea level rise.
To mitigate the urban heat island effect, we’ve incorporated shaded public spaces, gardens, and water features that capture storm water and provide cooling. The revitalized Warrawarrow River uses drainage interventions and natural vegetation for flood management and water quality improvement. Expanded mangroves along the coastline enhance biodiversity and act as natural storm buffers.
Green infrastructure, including climate-sensitive design elements, promotes airflow, reduces heat, and creates comfortable outdoor environments. The reimagined E.T. Joshua Park connects city districts with shaded walkways, native plants, and adaptable gathering spaces. By embedding climate resilience into every aspect of the design, Arnos Vale Modern City is prepared to face climate challenges and thrive in the future.
