The student recreation complex on the University of Missouri?s flagship campus blends new construction with renovations to the existing recreation center and two historic buildings — Brewer Field House, built in 1924, and Rothwell Gymnasium, built in 1905.
To overcome the challenge of integrating four buildings from different eras into one complex, designers clad the addition?s exterior in light-colored stone and cast-stone panels to complement the historic buildings? limestone rubble facade. In addition, the gabled, metal roofs of the former Rothwell Gymnasium and Brewer Field House are repeated throughout the entire complex.
Inside, upgrades were made to the gymnasium, suspended track, locker rooms and meeting rooms. Wood paneling, high ceilings and original fireplaces were restored in a spacious conference room formerly used as a trophy room. Training spaces, racquet sport courts, exercise studios and recreation department offices also were improved.
The center?s interior is themed around Mizzou?s tiger mascot, featuring indoor tropical gardens and a palette of the school?s black and gold combined with lush jungle colors. This theme is perhaps most prominent in the Tiger Grotto, an indoor leisure pool carved out of the former Rothwell gym shell. The Grotto is flanked by lifelike palms, rockscapes, a large video screen and a waterfall that cascades into a whirlpool. Metal-roofed sauna and steam safari shacks complete the picture. Meanwhile, the Mizzou Aquatic Center features a 50-meter competition pool, a 10-meter diving well with platforms and springboards, seating for 1,000 spectators and a wet classroom.
Arnold Recreation Center
