The challenge of the Casper Family Aquatic Center expansion was to secure access between the existing recreation facility and the new aquatics components. Careful planning resulted in a high level of control for the old and new functions, as well as a smooth flow of activity from check-in to the lockers to the pool.
The new facility includes a four-lane lap pool, a leisure pool with a slide and a children’s water-play feature, and is designed to accommodate an additional eight-lane lap pool in the future. The expansion also boasts spaces for administrative offices, men’s and women’s locker rooms, family changing rooms, a new party room and storage. The interior palette was selected to enhance the aquatic environment and make spaces feel bright and warm, and graphics break up large wall masses.
On the exterior, the new design elements were chosen to work with the existing facility while adding visual interest. The slide tower faces the south and is a focal point as viewed from an adjoining park.