This project consisted of designing a new gymnasium and adding a fitness center to the existing athletic complex. The challenge was to create a contemporary design while respecting the original. Because of the siting, the addition also needed to act as a pedestrian concourse, negotiating the circulation of people traveling in all directions and vertically across four levels.
There are two terraced elements — the new gymnasium is one level lower than the existing gym, and the fitness center is down yet another level. The placement of the fitness center echoes the terracing effect found throughout the campus, and it provides an opportunity to utilize the roof as a terrace for social and spectator functions.
Due to budget and site constraints, the focus for the new gymnasium was to create a dynamic, intimate space. The majority of spectator seating was located on the north side, while balcony areas surround the court area on the east and west sides.
The building’s construction reflects the creative use of economical precast, poured-in-place and tilt-up concrete. Concrete columns, horizontal sunshades and colored glass in the new gymnasium and fitness center create a distinct vertical pattern, and the design enables stunning mountain views.
Cleveland State University - Recreation Center
