This new center reaffirms a commitment to providing residents with low-cost, family-friendly recreation options that continue to distinguish Virginia Beach from its neighbors and communities across the commonwealth. The design showcases social engagement, appropriately scales itself as a good neighbor to the surrounding community, connects with the great outdoors and expands the fitness energy of the programmed activities to promote health and wellness awareness.
The center features a large natatorium that contains a six-lane competition pool with competition diving areas as well as a 25-foot-high glass climbing wall, a leisure pool with a zero-entry beach and Virginia Beach-themed play structures, and an aqua track/lazy river element. The center also includes a double gymnasium, 7,500 square feet of fitness space, a dance/aerobics space, locker rooms and showers, eight multipurpose meeting rooms for community use, catering kitchen facilities and administrative office space.
The interior design concept of capturing the ocean and sand also grew from the local Virginia Beach community. The entire interior finish pallet and layout are designed to echo the ocean vernacular and sense of place. The building is easily approachable by pedestrians and is also exceptionally transparent, offering views of active recreation to promote engagement.
A number of sustainable design strategies help offset operational costs and assist the facility toward LEED Silver certification. These include rain gardens for stormwater management, bamboo wood floors, a geothermal HVAC system, daylight harvesting, and LED lighting with light pollution control.
Eaton Area Community Center
