While drafting recommendations for a new city parks masterplan, the client became aware of the opportunity, and eventually the need, to replace their functionally outdated community center. After extensive polling and interaction with city residents, a list of suggested amenities appropriate for a modern-day community center was developed by the project team. In addition to the flexible meeting and activity spaces previously provided, the expanded list of expected services included several types of fitness modalities, a functional gym, enhanced multi-function event spaces, an indoor playground, and a teaching/conservatory kitchen. The large proportion of older residents also wished to expand the informal indoor hang-out spaces provided by the original center, and to add an indoor walking track for exercise in off-seasons. Existing parks department offices also needed to be replaced and expanded.
The primary challenge of the subsequent architectural design was to accommodate the new program within the mandated maximum square footage, including all the supporting (but still critical) functions, while also providing open and welcoming spaces that embrace the wonderful park views, and to provide a unique, inspirational, and holistic architectural concept. Despite the modest footprint, accommodations have been included to provide a range of individual and safe socially-distant group experiences. The team was also motivated to design the most sustainable facility possible within the project restraints, resulting in the inclusion of solar panels, capture of natural light, and extensive plantings both inside and out.