Sports Center
SPORTS CENTER
An independent school wished to accommodate the rising demand for additional squash facilities, both from its students at the time and from likely future students.
The squash court addition, part of an ongoing revitalization and expansion plan for the school’s Sports Center, is located on the south façade of the school’s gymnasium, partially sunk into the hillside. The design pays special attention to the intersection of the existing building and the addition, with careful massing and material choices. The sweeping entry stair, glass and wood-clad vestibule, and overhang redefine the entry to the Sports Center. The two new courts feature glass back- and side-walls for maximized viewing opportunities. The wide hall alongside the glass-walled courts can accommodate the crowds during tournaments or be turned into a recreation room for the students with foosball and ping pong tables.
The addition is designed to be low maintenance and energy efficient through the use of abuse-resistant materials and a super insulated shell. A 45 KW solar panel array on the roofs of the existing building and addition will help offset electrical costs and provide an educational example for the students about environmental stewardship.
