Keene Family YMCA

The historic farms that populate this area of New England inspired the design of the Keene Family YMCA. The exterior consists of red siding, reminiscent of vertical wood boarding on barns, white trim that frames the windows and openings, and a gray metal roof. Three gabled-roof masses are joined by glass connections linking the different program functions within the building.

The first mass contains the child-care center on the first floor, and racquetball courts and exercise rooms on the second floor, while the center mass boasts the gymnasium and indoor running track. Connecting the pool and gym is the main lobby, which includes a two-story climbing wall, seating, a fireplace and workout equipment. The third mass contains the competition pool, therapy pool and spa pool.

Interior spaces are designed to be flexible and multifunctional. The gymnasium includes a basketball court and gymnastics area, which can be subdivided to allow four different activities to occur in one space while joggers and walkers use a suspended running track above. Each of the racquetball courts includes a moveable wall, making them easily convertible to squash courts.

Judge's Comments

This project does so much with so little. Vernacular language fits the site and purpose.
— David Bock

Simple elegance. Very nice solution and detailing, especially for the budget.
— Greg Garlock

Fits in with the New England barn vernacular. Simple and efficient planning.
— David Dymecki