University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Campus Recreation Center - East Renovation and Expansion
Urbana, IL
Year in Showcase: 2008
Project Description
Prior to renovation, the problems
with the University of Illinois’
Campus Recreation Center East
(CRCE) were twofold — not enough
space, and the wrong kind of space.
When students were surveyed
in 2001, their primary concern
was a lack of quality strength and
conditioning facilities.
Although an emphasis was placed
on expanding and refurbishing the
fitness center, a conscious effort also
was made to provide space for less popular
sports like badminton. The
new CRCE’s other additions include
a leisure pool, new locker rooms, a
gymnasium and a running track.
Sited to take full advantage of the
functions of the existing recreation
building to which it is adjoined, the
CRCE’s exterior is contemporary
and complementary to the context
of the U of I campus. It takes on a
particularly exciting appearance
at night, as recreation and fitness
activities are clearly visible through
the expanse of exterior glass.
The building interior was
designed to exude energy as
well as create a welcoming
sense. From the point of entry
through the main rotunda,
the students have a visual
connection to the major
recreation spaces, including
the pool, multicourt gym and
running track, which moves
through the rotunda directly
overhead.
Project Details
Architect of Record: VOA Associates Inc.; Chicago, Ill.
Design Consultant: Hughes Group Architects Inc.
Sterling, Va.
Programming/Operational
Consultant: Brailsford & Dunlavey
Washington, D.C.
Aquatic Design Engineer: Water Technology Inc.
Beaver Dam, Wis.
Construction Cost: $16.8 million
Square Feet: 110,000
Occupancy: April 2005
Vendors
Basketball Backboards/Supports:
Porter Athletic Equipment Co.
Floor Finishes:
Mondo
Flooring: Dal-Tile Corp.
Flooring, Aerobics:
Connor Sport Court International
Flooring, Aerobics:
Mondo
Shower/Toilet Partitions: Santana Products Inc.
Surface: Dal-Tile Corp.
Surfaces, Basketball:
Mondo
