Facilities of Merit 2006: Cedar Hill Recreation Center

Cedar Hill Recreation Center

Cedar Hill, TX

Year in Showcase: 2006

Project Description

The city of Cedar Hill is located in the heart of north Texas’ Hill Country. It makes perfect sense, then, that Cedar Hill’s recreation center rises above the city, situated to the west.

The panelists noted how exterior elements such as community patios overlooking a pristine pond take advantage of this hilltop setting. They also praised the use of buff brick, matching native limestone, galvanized metal roof and wall panels, and wood roof canopies at the building’s two entries — all indigenous materials that tie to the city’s rich agricultural tradition.

Inside, clear distinctions are made between controlled access areas and public spaces, including the meeting room wing that one judge described as featuring a “nice scale and comfortable feeling.” Yet, the generous use of glazing, simple wood paneling and slate floors bestow upon the interior an open and inviting quality, and provide ample views into activity spaces. The design also makes room for a future natatorium addition.

Judges' Comments

The composition allows the arena and the fitness center to sit comfortably next to one another, each retaining its own image without sacrificing function or aesthetics.
— Art Bodwell

This well proportioned and detailed project uses strong evocative forms to create a link with the local context.
— Darryl Condon

Wonderful consistency between pre-engineered and conventional construction. The palette of materials is cost-effective, but elegant.
— Chris Kastelic

Project Details

Construction Cost: $7.24 million

Occupancy: October 2004

Vendors

Aerobics Flooring: Robbins Sports Surfaces

Basketball Backboards/Supports: Draper Inc.

Divider Curtains: Draper Inc.

Fitness Center Flooring: Mondo USA

Flooring: Dal-Tile Corp.

Lockers: Bradley Corp.

Scoreboards/Timing Systems: Fair-Play Scoreboards

Volleyball Nets and Standards: Sports Imports Inc. (Senoh)