These Rest Areas in Marion County are among one of Florida’s largest corridors on I-75, with millions of travelers each year. The new building concepts will utilize the existing roof structure to semi replicate its role into serving as the overhead canopy between the two new restroom wings. By utilizing existing elements, it not only saves money on demolition and reduces cost on a new canopy, it also helps preserve the original intent and plays a small homage to the original Rest Area in its place. Similar to our other Rest Areas, safety is the highest priority. The slight bends in the two wings help define the space within the facility, creating a sense of place and easy wayfinding of the entrances, vending machines, and the children’s play area. This allows for the security guards to have clear sightlines throughout all the main areas of the site.

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Project Highlights

• Efficient Layout – Two restroom wings, one for both Men and Women. The slight bend in each building wing not only allows for simplistic unique design, it features convenient access for maintenance through an oversized chase, and ease to the rest of the back of house equipment in the custodial, electrical, and mechanical rooms.
• Security – Centralized security office allowing for clear views within the facility.
• Play Area – Various size berms create safe and dynamic space for children to play in