University of North Florida Student Wellness Complex

Jacksonville, Fla.
Construction Cost: $16.38 million
Area / Square Feet: 82,000
Occupancy Date: August 2012

The first phase of the University of North Florida Student Wellness Complex provides housing for both wellness and recreation programs. Later phases will expand the building to incorporate spaces for physical education programming.

The facade consists of metal paneling, glass and brick to harmonize with the existing campus vocabulary. The primary point of entry sits at the eastern edge of the building, with access control accommodated at a check-in desk. The Health Promotions Department and the café are both accessible to students without requiring them to pass through the control point.

The interior of the facility is open to showcase the various activities housed within, as well as emphasize the integration of wellness programs. While some of the university’s prominent blue color was used, the color scheme is primarily neutral, with only splashes of brightness, placing more emphasis on the students and equipment within the space.

This project has been submitted for LEED Gold certification, surpassing the initial university directive that the design achieve a LEED Silver rating.