University Recreation Center, James Madison University

Harrisonburg, VA
Construction Cost: $42.8 Million
Area / Square Feet: 157,028
Occupancy Date: October 2016

The original recreation center at James Madison University opened in 1996 and was designed to accommodate 12,500 students. With current enrollment approaching 20,000, space was at a premium, and the facility was not able to serve the entire student population. The addition includes weight, fitness and cardio spaces that are two-and-a-half times the size of the original fitness spaces, while five group fitness studios give the university flexibility to accommodate cycling, mind-body classes and general use.

Other spaces include a wellness suite with assessment and training spaces, an outdoor-pursuits area with a bouldering wall and climbing wall, and an instructional pool with markings for volleyball and basketball, two lap lanes, a current channel, a hydrotherapy bench with cascading water and a whirlpool. The new spa is four times larger than the previous one and features a rock waterfall.

While the extensive use of glass allows for views into spaces and natural light, the design also allows for privacy and the acoustics required to teach and conduct both clinics and instructional workshops. Multipurpose rooms were placed on the south-facing exterior wall that overlooks a hill and trees to create a relaxing and pleasant experience.

The new building has achieved LEED Silver certification. Sustainable strategies include a recycled turf field, reusing field lighting in other university locations, reusing soils and extensive use of natural light.