Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center

Dallas, TX
Construction Cost: $25.8 million
Area / Square Feet: 43,476
Occupancy Date: November 2017

Traditional, contemporary

The Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center’s design respects the campus standard Georgian architectural style, with some contemporary nods reflecting its unique use and SMU's growing east campus environment. Targeting LEED Gold certification, the new facility includes an Olympic-size 50-meter, eight-lane indoor pool; a 10-meter diving tower with four springboards; a movable bulkhead to maximize programming; men’s and women’s varsity team locker rooms; seating for 800 spectators; coaching offices; a classroom; a VIP suite; and a spacious lobby.

High tech

The facility's emphasis on technology is remarkable. Multiple cameras both above and below water capture athletes' movements in high-resolution detail for review and coaching refinement. Multiple scoreboards and a third video board benefit the fan experience and enable hosting of meets — from events held by community groups to American Athletic Conference and NCAA championships.

Challenging site

The project was built on a highly restrained site, requiring detailed coordination with contractors very early in the design process. The processes for excavating the pool, installing foundations and utility connections, even placing erection cranes used to lift a 180-foot-long truss, all had to be fully vetted in order to design the facility. Parking and staging space was very hard to come by, and the team developed numerous options for constructing the 17-foot-deep pool alongside building and dive-tower foundations. Also, the project was built in tandem with adjacent major utility work and with an eye toward a master plan that includes a future outdoor pool next door.