Inspired by Nature — A Community Hub Focused on Adventure

Quarry Trails in Columbus, Ohio, a former limestone quarry turned Metro Park, is now a vibrant community hub designed by Meyers+Associates that connects residents to nature through thoughtfully integrated indoor-outdoor spaces.

By Brandi Koloski

Photography by Kate Horgan

A flexible social hub featuring a variety of seating applications in a community clubhouse

Nestled in Columbus, Ohio is an immersive community hub with a design that is heavily rooted in its surroundings. The Quarry Trails development is shaped by its unique location — once the largest contiguous limestone quarry in the U.S. and now transformed into a Metro Park that connects people to the outdoors. As a collaborative effort between Thrive Companies, the City of Columbus, and Franklin County, this dynamic mixed-use community, designed by Meyers+Associates, gives residents a place to connect and unwind, all while bringing a slice of nature indoors.

Rooted in the Surroundings

At the southern entrance of the new Quarry Trails Metro Park, you’ll find the community center along with shops and residences, all part of a lively new community rooted in adventure and the beauty of the old quarry. The homes and amenities cover about 80 acres of the 607-acre park, a space that was once an active quarry and required a major transformation to restore it.

The community clubhouse acts as the first impression of Quarry Trails, welcoming residents and visitors alike. While the clubhouse may be compact, it’s designed to be the heart of it all—connecting trail systems to inspire a sense of adventure and serving as a flexible space for community programs. With areas adaptable for both daily activities and special events, it’s a versatile hub that meets today’s needs and leaves room for future possibilities.

The design of the clubhouse leans heavily into Quarry Trails’ outdoor setting. With tall ceilings and plenty of natural light and windows that perfectly frame the greenery outside, Meyers+Associates created a “calm, cool, relaxed” vibe that balances refinement with a natural, rugged charm. The space includes everything from a demonstration kitchen to a bar and lounge area, along with a media room, giving residents a flexible spot to gather, relax, and celebrate life at Quarry Trails. The pool area even features a bar with an operable window that opens directly to the pool deck, providing a seamless indoor-outdoor connection that’s hard to resist.

Materials that Compliment Nature

In curating furniture for the space, Meyers+Associates was drawn to Grand Rapids Chair pieces for their simplistic designs and use of natural wood. Pieces like the Harper Stool, Andy Lounge, and Andy Communal Table were selected for their durability and easy adaptability to the clubhouse’s flexible layout. The use of real wood gave a nod to the outdoors, allowing the furniture to blend seamlessly into the setting rather than overpower it. Meyers+Associates Senior Interior Designer Danielle Garson noted how essential this subtlety was, saying the furniture “complemented the natural environment” while staying true to the simplicity of the overall design.

Garson emphasized how the durability of Grand Rapids Chair products was equally important for a space that serves as a 24/7 communal hub. Since residents can access the clubhouse around the clock, durability was a priority to ensure the furniture could handle constant use. The added variety of bar heights and seating options also allowed for creative setups—ideal for a space that frequently hosts different events.

Ultimately, Quarry Trails Clubhouse is more than just a clubhouse. It’s a space where residents come together, whether they’re catching up by the fireplace or enjoying a quiet moment by the pool. With design that reflects its quarry origins, it feels like part of the landscape, a place that feels rooted in the community’s outdoor spirit. This partnership between form, function, and nature makes Quarry Trails a true home for its residents—a hub where they can embrace both community and nature.

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