Athletic Business - University of New Haven — David A. Beckerman Recreation Center

University of New Haven — David A. Beckerman Recreation Center

West Haven, Conn.

Year in Showcase: 2009

Project Description

In 2004, the University of New Haven embarked on a $90 million plan to upgrade and expand its campus. The ambitious project — which includes new residences, academic buildings, and site improvements — supports an ongoing strategy of transforming UNH from a commuter campus to a residential university.

The first building in this evolution is the David A. Beckerman Recreation Center. Located on a prominent site adjacent to the main campus entrance, the building presents a striking 15-foot-tall glass wall along the entire length of its street facade. The facility essentially is composed of two distinct, interlocking elements. The larger of these houses the gymnasium, formed with a pre-engineered steel frame and clad in silver and white aluminum panels. The smaller element houses all additional spaces — including the two-level fitness spaces, plus multipurpose rooms and lounge areas.

In addition to several primary activity areas, the building includes a range of social spaces to complement the building’s recreation and fitness missions and attract the broadest possible cross-section of students. These spaces include a juice bar with a soft-seating area adjacent to the reception area, and a lounge on the upper balcony accommodating ping-pong and foosball tables and overlooking the jogging track and main courts.

Project Details

Architect of Record: Sasaki Associates Inc.; Watertown, Mass.

Construction Cost: $12.8 million

Square Feet: 56,000

Occupancy: December 2007

Vendors

Basketball Backboards/Supports: Spalding

Court Panels/Glass: Court Co., The

Dashers: Athletica

Divider Curtains: Spalding

Elliptical Equipment: Star Trac

Floor Finishes: Aacer Flooring LLC