MEL/ARCH
ArcSpace
A rendering of MEL/ARCH's upcoming ArcSpace development
Fort Worth architecture firm MEL/ARCH has come to be recognized for its atypical designs, like the office and retail park, Connex, made from technicolor shipping containers.
The firm's latest project is meant to focus on sustainability and fostering a creative community.
ArcSpace — an approximately 20,000-square-foot development located at 108 Cromwell St. in Fort Worth's East Side — will be a collection of 13, 1,200-square-foot, small-scale makerspaces and residential living. Also located across the property will be outdoor gardens, a koi pond, exhibition areas, social spaces, and a meditation space to fortify a fun, artistic atmosphere.
MEL/ARCH
ArcSpace
The idea for ArcSpace came from Jie and Matthijs Melchiors, married couple and partners at MEL/ARCH. “Having lived in Fort Worth for quite some time,” Matthijs shared in an interview, “we’ve come to really like our city and want to make a positive contribution.”
Once the project is complete, the Melchiorses plan to live on the property as caretakers and to help foster community.
ArcSpace’s name was derived from the unique, arched shape of the roof. Aside from its shape, one of the building’s most prominent aspects will be its green design. “We’re looking to incorporate as many sustainable features as possible,” said Matthijs. These elements include permeable pavers as an alternative to concrete or asphalt, wind turbines to generate electricity onsite, and methods to capture rainwater from the roof for irrigation.
The firm plans to begin breaking ground by June or July of this year and for construction to last around 10 – 12 months. ArcSpace is expected to be completed and open to the public by summer 2022.
MEL/ARCH
