The city of Aurora was looking for a space that could do a multitude of things at once. Populous was asked to design a recreational field house to respect, celebrate and participate in its site while also fulfilling the necessary requirements of operational efficiency, cost-effective design and betterment of the community. The Southeast Aurora Recreation Center and Fieldhouse celebrates this spirit through a marriage of the dynamic landscape, the topography of its mountain-adjacent location and the thoughtful design focused on benefitting the community. Using resources such as natural Douglas fir structure and decking, the structure mimics the geography of a canyon, with a large open entryway that spans the length of the building and draws visitors into the “canyon.” An elevated running track extends from inside the gym out into the canyon entryway, incorporating changes in elevation throughout the loop. The path symbolizes a journey through the local terrain. The fitness area includes a patio and garage door opening to outdoor training areas, further linking the landscape. The center combines a field house, pools, community spaces, various indoor exercise areas and lounges to create a space fit for all families and residents.
Lead Architect
Populous
Aquatic Design Consultant
Components
- Four-lane lap pool
- Play pool
- Spray features
- Lazy River
Suppliers
Chemical Control Systems | BECS Technology Inc. |
Lane Markers | Competitor Swim |
ADA Lifts, Basketball Goal, Ladders/Grab Bars | Fluidra |
Filtration Systems, Sanitization Systems | Neptune Benson/Xylem |