Claremont Savings Bank Community Center

First conceived in 2001 following a community-wide needs assessment, the vision for the Claremont Savings Bank Community Center went through several iterations before a 2009 decision to utilize a design-build approach brought the final project to fruition. The outcome was a 52,000-square-foot, two-story building set into the hillside. The building was designed to be one story along the front facade out of respect for the surrounding residential neighborhood.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a central reception area, which provides oversight and access control to the entire building. This central circulation space, which also acts as a viewing space to the pool and gym below, provides direct access to the administrative office suite, concessions, a youth recreation room and two multipurpose rooms.

The interior design is purposely sparse, anticipating the activity and social interaction of the community. The majority of the flooring is colored concrete for durability and ease of maintenance; walls are gypsum drywall with a paint scheme that is neutral and natural in palette; ceilings are appropriate acoustical tiles; and lighting is utilitarian. A healthier budget was reserved for material choices in the locker rooms and bathrooms, which feature carpet and tile floors, ceramic tile walls and painted gypsum drywall ceilings.