Kline Athletic Center Addition, Dickinson College

Carlisle, PA
Construction Cost: $12.3 Million
Area / Square Feet: 29,000
Occupancy Date: July 2014

The original Kline Athletic Center, designed in the 1980s, served as a model for numerous university campuses in its era. Thirty years later, the rejuvenated Kline Center addition (the first phase of a multiphase master plan) expands on the building’s legacy while creating a new face for Dickinson’s athletics and recreation programs.

With expanded cardio and weight training facilities, there are more opportunities than ever for Dickinson students to use the Kline Center on a daily basis in their pursuit of personal health and wellness. Students also have access to squash courts, an outdoor basketball court, fitness testing and a healthy-living juice bar. The building has also helped Dickinson launch new intramural and recreation programming since its opening.

The state-of-the-art training and competition spaces not only strengthen Dickinson’s ability to recruit top talent, but also increase its ability to draw top competitors from outside the Centennial Conference. The inclusion of a café, study spaces and an exterior plaza with benches and meeting areas creates a new student hub at this end of campus.

The palette of materials for the new building picks up the gray coloration of the historic campus limestone, and in its detailing matches the simple restrained spirit of the original building. Its wholly contemporary design and focus on sustainability reflects the mindset of the college: to equip graduates with 21st-century skills that prepare them to integrate knowledge and adapt to a constantly changing set of challenges.

Judge's Comments

“Exceptional detailing, and the inclusion of an exterior exercise space was very thoughtful.” — Lynn Reda

“Phenomenal attention to detail. The simplest moments flawlessly executed.” — Keith Russeau

“Striking outdoor yoga space is a unique and creative way to engage in alternative fitness programs.” — Troy Sherrard

KLINE ATHLETIC CENTER