Located on a brownfield site on the northern bank of the Ohio River in a neglected portion of downtown New Albany, this YMCA was designed to be a catalyst for redevelopment and connect residents to the river. When viewed from the Ohio River Bridge, the building presents a strong, iconic image while also blending in with New Albany’s historic downtown. The most prominent element is a three-story, triangular glass atrium. The building features projecting panels of brick with precast concrete banding offset by sections of aluminum paneling. Large windows allow daylight into the building while putting the YMCA’s programs on display at night.
The atrium is a hub of activity. From the lobby, guests can view many activity spaces, including the aquatic center, the child watch area, the gymnasium, the climbing wall, the walking track, the strength training area and a group exercise studio. The openness of the design also provides staff the ability to monitor multiple activity areas at once. The locker rooms are clustered adjacent to the aquatic center, allowing members to change and walk directly onto the pool deck. The shallow water of the family fun pool was located closest to the locker rooms to prevent children from having to walk past deep water.
