Centennial Park Pavilion by modus studio: A Sculptural Beacon for a Cycling-Activated Park

 Architects: modus studio 

A Landmark Structure at the Heart of a World-Class Cycling Destination

Perched atop Millsap Mountain in Fayetteville, Arkansas, the Centennial Park Pavilion by modus studio stands as a dynamic, sculptural centerpiece within one of the United States’ most advanced cycling parks. This architectural intervention was designed not merely as a utility structure but as a functional landmark that unifies design, sport, and landscape.

Serving as a central gathering node in Centennial Park, the pavilion supports a wide range of programming—from casual recreation to international cycling events—through integrated restrooms, event infrastructure, podium spaces, registration stations, and vendor support zones. This multipurpose utility reinforces Fayetteville's identity as a global hub for mountain biking and cyclo-cross events.

Inspired by Agrarian History and Local Topography

The architectural language of the pavilion reflects the cultural and geographic history of the area. Once home to poultry farms, the site’s agrarian past is subtly referenced in the open-jointed cladding system, which allows sunlight to filter through like slats in a barn, creating a play of light and shadow that animates the interior.

The pavilion’s overall form is a sculptural response to Fayetteville’s seven hills, an iconic topographic identity. It also promotes Millsap Mountain as part of a proposed new ring of significant elevations, expanding the city's sense of spatial hierarchy and regional significance.

Material Expression and Structural Innovation

The pavilion is constructed using a restrained palette of regionally appropriate and durable materials, with exposed structural beams and vertically oriented light wells acting as both wayfinding tools and architectural features. These light wells not only bring daylight deep into the structure but also stand as vertical markers, enhancing visitor orientation within the expansive park.

The fusion of form, light, and natural ventilation supports both the functional demands of the space and the experience of being within nature. The pavilion acts as both shelter and stage, supporting everything from everyday gatherings to high-performance athletic events.

Designed for Performance and Community

Centennial Park is designed as a cycling-activated urban greenspace, boasting over 50 miles of paved shared-use trails and 40 miles of natural-surface mountain biking trails. The pavilion strengthens this infrastructure by providing a physical and visual anchor point.

Thanks to this robust setup, the park has hosted elite international competitions such as the 2022 UCI Cyclocross World Championships, 2021 Cyclocross World Cup, and the USA Cycling Pro Cup Series, affirming its position as a premier racing destination.

Yet despite its professional-grade amenities, the park and its pavilion remain completely free and publicly accessible, emphasizing inclusivity and local engagement.

Architecture That Builds Identity

More than just a structure, the Centennial Park Pavilion is a symbol of Fayetteville’s investment in active outdoor living, sustainable placemaking, and international connectivity. It helps brand the park on the global stage while seamlessly integrating into the natural landscape and local culture.

All photographs are works of  Timothy Hursley