The Old Dominion University Recreation Center project involved the demolition of most of an existing field house and the creation of a state-of-the-art recreation facility built around the existing natatorium. Plan efficiency was achieved with a central “main street” — highlighted by interspersed skylights — that connects and unifies the facility’s major activity spaces. A number of large interior windows and open spaces allow activities to be visible to pedestrians outside. The “main street” also includes built-in wood benches along the perimeter for socializing and downtime.
Along with the existing natatorium and locker rooms, the facility contains a two-story climbing wall near the main entrance, with skylights providing natural illumination for climbers. An elevated jogging track passes by a three-court open gymnasium and a multipurpose activity court. Other amenities include a 15,000-square-foot fitness center, a juice bar, high-ceilinged group exercise studios, a three-tiered group cycling studio, three racquetball courts, a multipurpose court, classrooms, office space, conference rooms and specialized research laboratories.
A large, curved glass-wall facade ties the facility to a nearby convocation center while making activity areas visible to students outside.
