The Apache Junction Multi-Generational Recreation Center is the first indoor recreation amenity in the town of Apache Junction, which sits at the base of the Superstition Mountains, located 30 miles east of Phoenix. The ominous Superstitions, in concert with the surrounding rural desert landscape, inspired the facility’s colors, forms and materials selection. As a result, the Apache Junction center functions not as an architectural icon, but rather as a complement to the desert environment in which it rests.
Located in a community composed largely of retirees and senior citizens, the facility serves both as a senior center and a recreation center. A key design requirement was to clearly identify the building’s two primary functions and to facilitate wayfinding to its various components.
As patrons enter the facility, they are greeted by two clearly delineated reception desks. Although the building houses two different departments, its layout flows nonetheless. For example, located in the central lobby area is a three-story climbing wall that serves as a unifying focal point. Other major components include a large gymnasium, a suspended walking/jogging track, a fitness area, an aerobics room, a game room, a multipurpose room, classrooms and two arts and crafts areas.
The building’s sustainability is perhaps one of its most significant features. While designed to be aesthetically pleasing and blend into the natural landscape, the LEED™-certified facility was also constructed to have reduced need for consumption of natural resources.
Extensive natural daylighting diminishes the demand for electrical lighting, while water is conserved through the use of drought-tolerant plants outside and waterless urinals and low-flow showerheads and sink faucets inside.