While the Devon Boathouse High Performance Center was creating a national training center for Olympic hopefuls, there was also immediate opportunity in adding specialized racing facilities to support judges, the media, VIPs and visitors at large.
The Finish Line position was the riverfront’s first site opposite a bridge and the Chesapeake Boathouse. It was the natural position for the finish line. Rowers testing the waters here had long since adopted the position, precisely 2,000 meters (about 6,500 feet) east of the Starting Line.
The Master plan had long since located the Devon Boathouse next door and anticipated future boathouses along the water’s edge.
At four stories, the CHK Finish Line structure would heighten the architectural drama and broaden capabilities for hosting large competitive events. Its presence would invite a sense of celebration precisely where results become known and where victories are won.
For this design, Rand Elliott Architects’ mission was to create another dramatic riverfront landmark with a more vertical signature for the emerging Boathouse District. It would meet the standard set by the Chesapeake Boathouse, a variation on the angular architectural language that emulates speed.
With occupants in mind, the bold design required glass that would reduce interior glass glare by day and night. Sloped glass and special lighting would also be used. For the judges, visibility to racing lanes would remain priority, along with conforming to the world rowing foundation’s guidelines (FISA). The mirror wall pulls light into the space and makes it feel more transparent.
A bonus amenity for scores of spectators materialized under the building’s boldly cantilevered canopy. The overhang created a large expanse of shade – close to half the building footprint. A gentle slope down to the water’s edge – with terraced turf — creates theater-like seating for an inviable view.
A final touch is the Finish Line LED marker underscores the precision built into race results.
A floor-by-floor tour:
1st Floor – Visitors The ground floor is a Welcome Center for visitors, complete with maps and merchandise to introduce the riverfront attractions.
2nd Floor – Judges Racing officials appreciate their exclusive floor to accommodate their needs: A sweeping view of the racecourse, chairs at different elevations and an ideal straight-on view of the Finish Line.
3rd Floor – The Media Floor offers generous workspaces and electronic support for creating content and commentary,
4th Floor – VIPs The top floor’s panoramic views and catered events welcome guests for private events and race day views.
5th Floor – Spectators One of the building’s amenities is the cool shade beneath its jutting canopy. Neatly tiered grass-covered and concrete steps reach to the water’s edge.
Once again, a title sponsor was secured and Rand Elliott Architects’ design paved the way for this, the riverfront’s third structure with four audiences in mind.
It was all part of gaining status as a premier venue for international regattas and U.S. Olympic trials.
The Finish Line Tower, seen from the water emphasizes its Finish Line identity with tall vertical slice of blue light.
