Updating an existing campus facility is never trivial, but designers of the Conestoga College Student Recreation Centre’s renovation drew widespread praise from the panel for their deft approach. “A very elegant and restrained response — both inside and out — to the existing buildings,” one judge stated. “A great example of how to breathe new life into a dated facility. The design solution is timeless and powerful.”
An emphasis on sustainability began on a large scale by salvaging an existing arena shell, then followed through to such details as natural lighting, LED lighting and fritted glazing that controls solar heat gain. A new addition’s exterior features a bioswale and a green-roofed canopy. Said another panelist, “This is a great story of challenging the client’s assumptions through sustainability and then carefully crafting a seamless transition of new and old.”
“Brilliant, confident approach to the new entry and activity center. The cantilevered mass was flawlessly executed.”
Keith Russeau
Credits:
Photos by Shai Gil and Nicole Bell. Video by Sean Ray.