In 2009, Hope College, which had been playing home tennis meets at local high schools, was looking for a location for its new outdoor tennis complex. The city of Holland deeded to the college an unused corner of property immediately adjacent to the college’s existing indoor tennis facility and outdoor athletic fields. The result was a partnership that produced a first-class tennis complex available for collegiate and community use, a summer-long tennis academy and USTA qualifier camps.
Twelve courts are divided by an elevated spine, which affords ideal viewing with permanent stadium-style seating and sculptural sunshades. Underneath is an open-air player area complete with benches, drinking fountains and access to each court. Storage rooms under the access stairway provide a convenient location for ball machines, squeegees and other equipment. Each set of six courts is broken down into batteries of two with low partial fences that help with ball control while allowing free viewing during competitions and academy drills.
The project’s overall aesthetic was selected to carefully tie into the context of the surrounding athletic campus. Exterior materials of brick and stone were chosen to create a rich collegiate appearance. Likewise, entry arches replicate those found elsewhere on campus.
Oak Ridges Community Centre
