Located in a forested residential neighborhood near wetlands, the Oliver Woods Community Centre uses nature to diminish its mass. The architectural expression of the building was developed using high-end materials and forms in the lobby and low-rise portions of the building, while the larger volumes make use of durable block and insulated panels. A large expanse of floor-to-ceiling, west-facing glazing in the lobby and lounge offer intimate views of the neighboring forest.
The interior boasts a simple, clean aesthetic, and warm, muted earth tones soften harder surfaces. The facility incorporates recycled materials for some of the ceilings and millwork, including refinished wood salvaged from a demolished local building. Low-VOC materials were used for paint, hard-surface flooring and carpeting, while an innovative mechanical system reduces energy consumption.
Other features include a larger-than-usual two-court gymnasium designed for futsal competition, multipurpose rooms with movable partitions and sprung floors, a second-level conference room with a generous outdoor deck and centralized locker rooms adjacent to the gym that are accessible from all points within the building.
Montclair State University Student Recreation Center
