The design challenge on this project was to establish a state-of-the-art,
multigenerational, community-oriented wellness facility. The new center features a large natatorium containing a six-lane competition pool with competition diving areas and a 25-foot-high climbing wall, a leisure pool with a zero-depth-entry beach and Virginia Beach-themed play structures,
and a lazy river. The center also includes a double gymnasium, 7,500 square feet of fitness space, a dance/aerobics space, locker rooms and showers, eight multipurpose meeting rooms for community use, catering kitchen facilities and administrative office space. An elevated indoor walking/jogging
track winds through the gymnasium, fitness and lobby spaces, providing an active and visually stimulating environment.
All active program elements — the natatorium, the gym, and the fitness and
multipurpose rooms — are visible upon entering the facility’s main entrance and lobby. The entire interior finish palette and layout are designed to echo the ocean vernacular and sense of place. The exterior design was envisioned as an analogy to a sand dune fence common to the Virginia Beach community aesthetic, a concept that was expanded into the heavy timber structure.
The facility was designed to permit after-school programs, summer day camps, aquatics programs, and social programs for children, teens, adults and adults with disabilities. The design showcases social engagement, appropriately scales itself as a good neighbor to the surrounding community, connects with the great outdoors and expands the fitness energy of the programmed activities to promote health and wellness awareness.
Eaton Area Community Center
