Replacing an aging 1960s-era building, this multifaced- masonry community center fits into the context of its residential neighborhood, and projects a scale suited to its contemporary design and prairie-style influences.
The facility houses a gymnasium, dance/group exercise space, multipurpose rooms, arts-and-crafts space, an interactive children’s program space and a central, vaulted lobby. Tennis courts, an outdoor basketball court and a playground were also included in the community center redevelopment, upgrading the recreational campus, which also includes a pool complex. The lighting solution adopted for interior spaces sought to conserve energy without degrading interior color quality. The understated palette of the facility’s interior features cream walls accented with soft blue and earth-tone hues. Corridor lighting extends green design objectives, as sensors determine light levels based on space usage and increase illumination as natural light from skylights diminishes.
Children’s spaces are decorated with multicolored carpet tiles made from post-consumer recyclable content. Multipurpose rooms are outfitted with divider panels to boost flexibility through the reconfiguration of space. Locker room spaces are conservatively appointed, employing ceramic tile for ease of maintenance, a factor that figured into flooring selections throughout the facility. Masonry treatments inside the building and out likewise offer stability and resilience.
Orange Coast College Fitness Complex
