Sammamish Community and Aquatic Center

BALANCING NEEDS
The Sammamish Aquatics Center is within blocks of three large area high schools and is also the only public pool in the community. Pool features seek to balance the needs of users ranging from those learning to swim to competitive athletes. The leisure pool features a zero-depth area with play features, a current channel and a deeper program area intended to attract the smaller set, those learning to swim, teens and active-aging adults. A two-story water slide with a runout is provided for the young and young at heart. A six-lane, 25-yard lap pool is provided for competitive swimmers. Those in need of warmer water for sore muscles can use the spa.

CONNECTION TO NATURE
The design goal was to extend the experience of traveling through the forest into the building through fenestration, lighting and overall form. The Community Center design is nestled into the hillside with a very modest, unassuming form at the entry. Upon entering, the building opens up as you travel through the space and down the hill, dramatically revealing the monumental views from the park side.