Half Acre Recreation and Wellness Center, University of Wyoming

Laramie, WY
Construction Cost: $27.7 Million
Area / Square Feet: 140,900
Occupancy Date: November 2015

The planning team for the Half Acre Gymnasium renovation believed that within the walls of the historic building — originally dedicated in 1925 — there was a 21st-century facility waiting to be revealed. This dichotomy of old and new provided inspiration for the design.

The interior of the existing gym uses the same nature-inspired color palette as the new portion, but with a 1920s-era flair. Some of the original light fixtures remain, serving as inspiration for the interior design of original spaces such as the lobby and pool. New amenities include men’s and women’s locker rooms, assisted changing rooms and express lockers, and elevators and ramps providing accessible routes between the new and existing first floors.

The first floor is home to a new-and-improved fitness infield, featuring expanded views and natural lighting. The second floor is now the hub of court sports, featuring the traditional wood floor court of Half Acre, as well as a new multiuse gymnasium, four racquetball courts and group exercise studios. The third floor features an expanded walking/jogging track that overlooks the courts.

A 38-foot climbing wall is located in the southeast corner of the building, serving as a focal point from both the interior and exterior.