The existing Alumni Auditorium at Palmer College of Chiropractic on the north edge of campus had served as the recreation space for the college since its construction in 1970, but housed many other functions in addition to student recreation. The existing 34,800-square-foot facility was completely renovated and modernized to meet today’s needs.
The work encompassed complete demolition of all non-structural portions of the building, and the construction of two additions that total 11,100 square feet to the north and south of the existing building, opening it up from what used to be a windowless box. As part of the transformation, a south lobby with access to a new skywalk has been added to tie into the rest of the campus skywalk system.
Control of the facility takes place in the new south lobby. This space serves as a passthrough from west campus to east campus and a connection into the skywalk system, making the new lobby a prominent location to attract users who may have previously been unaware of the activities that take place inside the center.
A nod to the practice studied at the college can be found on the north elevation, where two large spines made of cast stone are inlaid in the brick stair towers flanking the new strength training area, which is put on display behind a wall of glass. Connection to the site is achieved by well-positioned openings, allowing users of the facility to see and be seen.
Shakopee Ice Arena & Community Center
