Stephen F. Austin State University Student Recreation Center

Construction Cost: $22 million
Area / Square Feet: 80,910
Occupancy Date: July 2007

The Student Recreation Center’s open design showcases movement and activity, while reducing supervision requirements. From the control desk, staff can view almost all major activity spaces, including weight and fitness areas, a climbing wall, a track, racquetball courts and a lounge.

The gymnasium is located on the north side of the building to allow plenty of natural light through clerestories. Shade structures around the pool and outdoor courtyard serve two functions: to provide relief from the hot Texas sun and to serve as physical barriers between the pool courtyard and an activity courtyard.

Interior materials were selected for durability, and school colors of purple and white were integrated throughout the facility. Although the recreation center is designed with a contemporary feel, rich, medium-brown wood tones link it to the traditional, formal aesthetic of other campus buildings. Purple, white and gray terrazzo and rubber athletic flooring form large curved patterns that echo the building’s architectural forms. Exterior materials such as brick are used on the interior, complemented by brushed stainless metal elements and lighting. Large decorative sconces augment abundant natural light from large windows in the main circulation space.