2013 Facilities of Merit: Keene YMCA

Doing more with less has become a common design mantra, but nowhere is this more evident than in the Keene Family YMCA, which efficiently houses a wide range of activity spaces. Said one judge, "Keene YMCA is a wonderful example of how commercial building systems can be utilized with pre-engineered systems to provide communities with cost-effective program space."

Photo by John HornerThe community in this case is populated with historic New England farms, inspiring project architects to clad the Y's three large masses in red siding, white trim and gray metal roofs. Economic use of standardized modular rigid frames allowed for more efficient use of steel and lower costs. Glass connections link the three masses, and glass curtain wall and clerestory windows strategically placed on each mass create bright interior environments that appear anything but barn-like.

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Judges' Comments:

This project does so much with so little. Vernacular language fits the site and purpose.

Simple elegance. Very nice solution and detailing, especially for the budget.

Fits in with the New England barn vernacular. Simple and efficient planning.

Architect of Record:

ARC/Architectural Resources CambridgeCambridge, Mass.

Cost: $10.1 million
Square Footage: 64,500
Funded By: Private donations
Major Facility Components: Gymnasium with elevated jogging track, competitive and leisure swimming pools, climbing wall, fitness spaces, convertible racquetball/squash courts, child-care center