La Agora
In collaboration with a local religious organization in Punta Cana, La Agora was designed as a Christian library café that brings faith, community, and learning together through thoughtful spatial design. Located in Punta Cana Village, the project transforms a vacant tenant space into a flexible environment that supports reading, fellowship, and small group gatherings. Inspired by the local context, the design emphasizes openness, adaptability, and meaningful connection
PUNTA CANA, D.R.
Samford University
Year: 2025
Professor: Tonya Miller, & Jill Hicks
Software: Revit, SketchUp, LUMION
The design of this Christian Library Café in Punta Cana centers on connectivity, organic design, and circulation. The space is open and inviting, with smaller areas that allow people to gather in groups while still providing a central space for community events such as music performances and guest speakers.
Circulation is expressed through a layout that encourages both fellowship and individual reflection. Organic design is reflected in the use of natural colors, shapes, and materials that connect the interior to the surrounding landscape. Connectivity plays a key role, enabling people to move easily and fluidly from one space to another.
Overall, the design creates a welcoming environment where people can come together to learn, connect, and grow in both knowledge and faith.
“For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, through many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”
This verse connects to my design concept because the café is envisioned as a space where people come together in unity. Just as the body of Christ is made up of many members with different roles, the café brings individuals with diverse backgrounds and purposes into one welcoming environment. Each person contributes to the shared atmosphere, reflecting the idea that we all belong to one another
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