Architect : CannonDesign
Architect: Jenkins Peer Architects
Project Category : College / University
Construction Cost: NA
Square Feet: 148,000
Project Description:
A dynamic hub for campus recreation, the University Recreation Center is UNC Charlotte’s first facility fully dedicated to campus recreation. The four-story facility triples the previous amount of available space and responds to growing student demand and enrollment by filling a significant void in UNC Charlotte’s student life experience with a wide variety of recreation offerings.
Amenities include a four-court gymnasium, an elevated track with incline, cardiovascular and strength training spaces arranged in a series of fitness neighborhoods throughout the building, a synthetic turf space with functional training tools, multipurpose studios, a dedicated cycling studio, a full demonstration kitchen, indoor and outdoor lap and leisure pools, outdoor volleyball and basketball courts, and extensive fitness balconies that help unite the indoor and outdoor experience.
The facility’s architecture is consistent with the established neoclassical architectural style of the surrounding campus. By incorporating more glazing, the design creates the transparency that establishes the building as a recreation center and sets it apart from the adjacent academic buildings. Exterior materials remain true to UNC Charlotte’s design standards and include red brick, cast stone and precast concrete with aluminum windows, designed to maintain the large structure’s human scale.
The interior design is also careful to reduce intimidation and promote inclusivity. Throughout the building and site, there is a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The use of glass creates transparency between floors and helps break down physical and metaphorical walls.
