West Lafayette Wellness Center 

In 2016, the City of West Lafayette conducted a feasibility study that identified an unmet demand in the community for an indoor community wellness, recreation and aquatic center. The following year, the West Lafayette Redevelopment Commission voted to proceed with the design and construction of a community recreation center in Cumberland Park. 

The building is nestled in the park’s southwest corner, north of downtown West Lafayette, on the site of the former parks department building. The siting of the building preserves the open space of the park and connects to the outdoor athletic fields, trails and nature preserve to the south. The relationship between the building and the park was a critical design driver, and both visual and physical connectivity to the exterior was carefully considered. Patios and terraces are located adjacent to community and fitness spaces, allowing for program uses to utilize both interior and exterior space. 

At the outset of the design process, inclusivity and community wellbeing were identified by the city and design team as key considerations for the project. The design team conceived of the building as a “pavilion in the park” — a place where all members of the community could come together under one roof to recreate, learn from one another and create lasting memories. The sweeping roof form creates an impactful, welcoming entrance and unites the various program spaces as it continues along the length of the building.

ARCHITECT OF RECORD

Perkins&Will

Denver, Colo.

AQUATIC CONSULTANT/ENGINEER

Water Technology Inc.

Beaver Dam, Wis.

PROJECT VENDORS