SFA students approved a fee to construct the recreation center in a 2004 campus referendum. The site chosen is heavily wooded with pine trees, and a primary goal in locating the building was to save as many trees as possible. The resulting design takes advantage of the site’s sloping terrain and views of the pine trees to the east, and orients most of the activity spaces with views to the outdoors. The gymnasium is located on the north side of the building to allow plenty of natural light through high, clear clerestory windows. The building was designed to accommodate a future two-court gymnasium on the northeast corner of the site, mirroring the existing gym.
The staff desired that school colors be integrated throughout the facility. Thus, purple and white are the basis for the scheme; green was added to reflect the beauty of the campus’s signature pine trees. Gray was also incorporated as a more practical alternative to white in some materials. Although the recreation center is designed with a contemporary feel, rich, medium-brown wood tones link it to the traditional, formal aesthetic of other campus buildings. Purple, white and gray terrazzo and synthetic athletic flooring form large curved patterns that echo the building’s architectural forms. Exterior materials such as brick are used on the interior, complemented by brushed stainless metal elements and lighting.
Centennial Hills Community Center
