Daniel Mackowiak
dmackowia@ltu.eduDaniel Mackowiak is currently a senior architecture student at Lawrence Technological University and will be starting his Master of Architecture in May. During Daniel’s student career he has focused on incorporating green space and universal design to all projects. This is to bring a part of the world he’s used to up north that many people in urban environments lack, noting the many benefits nature brings to humans in both physical and mental health. Daniel will be taking his many learned ideals back to his employment at Sidock Group in Gaylord, Michigan.
TITLE 
Sunset Point Recreation and Sports Center
MajorArchitecture [BS]
DescriptionSunset Point Recreation and Sports Center is located on the North Eastern Part of the Site. This was to allow for two key elements to happen. It allowed for both the boat launch area and fishing access to be connected together since water recreation is a major part of the culture in Soo Saint Marie. This also allows for people to come to the site and be able to experience the many nature trails of the area.Following LEED Standard, it was a goal to get people involved in the site and to also learn and preserve the site. On the Western Portion of the site is a small peninsula with a boardwalk and lighthouse to teach people about how the lake was formed, the boating industry, and about how to protect the bay area. Native wetland planting will be laid on both sides of the boardwalk to limit erosion and flooding. Other outdoor features include a games court, where people can play tennis, bocce ball, pickleball, badminton and other small sports. Other gathering spots include a large seating area for people to gather and cook. Nearby a water tower and ice tree allows for summer play and winter art. An amphitheater is located on the site for people to gather and learn about nature or the culture of the city. An American-Canadian friendship garden lies to the east of the building to tie the two cities together and promote bees for pollination. Some other gardens for food lay south to the site for incorporating homegrown food. Several nature trails allow for biking and walking and a bridge allows for wetland sightseeing. Frisbee golf also lines the trails to get more involvement on the trails. Heading back to the building a large dock allows for 360 navigation. The entrance incorporates a rock courtyard, showing off rocks from the site and a Zen Garden. The building is made of natural materials like natural sandstone and black locust wood to tie in natural materials of the area. The building incorporates a pool and gym as swimming in the area is limited for a certain time of the year. Other notable areas include a 2 story cafe space where a history walk is, glazed mechanical space to learn about the system, and a natural wood structure system and paneling to bring out the cozy lodge of the Soo Saint Marie origins.