Matthew Malski
mmalski@ltu.eduMatthew Malski is a senior completing his undergraduate degree and continuing his education through the Master of Architecture program at Lawrence Technological University. In his work, he focuses on the expression of materiality, tectonics and celebrating local heritage. Outside of formal education, he is passionate about the history of the Middle Ages. He unites his love of that culture with architecture through the study of medieval monuments.
TITLE 
Sault Ste. Marie Sport Hall
MajorArchitecture [BS]
DescriptionSault Ste. Marie is marked by a maritime culture, from the first sailing ships that braved the rapids to the freighters that continually enter the famous locks. Sited so close to the locks and historic downtown, embodying that culture became imperative in my proposal. The building’s linear organization connects to the prominence of linear forms in the Soo, most notably the native Anishinaabeg longhouses, the Cloverland Hydroelectric Plant, lake freighters and the mighty Soo Locks.
The building’s orientation is optimal for climatic conditions while also stitching the community to the riverfront. A new riverfront plaza supports the established tourist amenities while offering space for residents to enjoy the waterway as well. The quieter eastern part of the site is devoted to habitat restoration and nature trails, allowing the public to responsibly experience a taste of the natural environment of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This furthers the transition from neighborhood to riverfront.
Many of the large sail or shell forms of the roof face south, derived from the need for good solar orientation for the PV tiles cladding the forms. The double-curved roofs also lend well to shedding water and snow in a climate known for excessive snowfall. The mass timber structure reflects the ribbed hull of the tall ships that once graced the Great Lakes.