Floating patio becomes new marina hub

US marina build company Marina Development Inc (MDI) of Eufaula, Oklahoma has completed an expansion project at Clinton Lake Marina in Lawrence, Kansas. The work was designed and carried out with the assistance of the University of Kansas (KU) architecture department.

The project included construction of a new 37 x 80ft (11 x 24m) floating patio, fuel dock and courtesy dock, as well as an expansion of the club’s slip area. The pergola-style covers that provide shade and aesthetic features to the patio and fuel dock were designed by KU as part of a student project headed up by Professor Nils Gore.
The students met the marina owners on a weekly basis to discuss design aspects and received valuable work experience. As part of the design, they used the marina’s GPS coordinates to calculate the ideal 71° angle for the pergola slats to receive maximum shade during the summer months.
The project was undertaken to expand slip opportunities and provide a central location for visitors with or without boats. The upgraded space incorporates a brand new draft beer and seltzer bar, as well as a stage for live music. Increased foot traffic due to the remodel has already provided boosts to the marina’s rental boat and club programmes, ship store and restaurant.
“We wanted to build out the new space to double our capacity, as we were consistently maxing out our space, and to give us room to keep growing our rental and club fleet,” said Erin Meiusi, Clinton Lake Marina co-owner. “Frankly, the new space turned out better than we were even expecting. And with the patio space, the marina now has a focal point and general hangout area, giving people space to enjoy the beauty of mother nature while floating over the lake.”
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