Tarleton State University Recreation Sports Center

Stephenville, TX
Construction Cost: $11.1 million
Area / Square Feet: 71,961
Occupancy Date: October 2007

A brick vestibule tower identifies the entry into the new Recreation Sports Center at Tarleton State University. On the main floor, free weights and strength-training machines can be seen from the lobby, which anchors a two-level open space with an expansive glass curtain wall that offers views to the climbing wall. The three-court multipurpose gymnasium sports glass partitions that separate it from the main concourse. Four racquetball courts have glass back walls, while two also have glass side walls.

The second level houses a large group exercise room, a martial arts studio and access to the three-lane track suspended above the gym. Overlooking the lower level is a cardiovascular fitness equipment mezzanine with a variety of views.

A natural-wood control desk with a two-level back wall gives weight to the moderately sized lobby. Materials are in natural tones, with silver metal and aluminum as accents, and shades of Tarleton’s purple school color add richness.

The windows, roof shape, and exterior colors and textures were chosen to fit the context of surrounding campus buildings. For example, windows boast bronze anodized aluminum framing with bronze-tinted glass.