Constructed in 1963, the community center facility no longer met the City’s needs. The dated exterior lacked a well-defined entry and the interior spaces were internally focused, thus failing to connect to the surrounding park. Additionally, the building had lead and asbestos contamination and was not energy efficient. The basement which housed community activities was not ADA accessible or inviting due to a low entry soffit, and the at grade-level administrative offices were dark.
Designed to LEED Silver standards, the renovated community center expanded its original footprint with an additional 7,000 square feet, providing better access to the facilities and site orientation, while upgrading the energy and water efficiency and performance of the building. The event room’s north-facing curtain window walls take full advantage of the neighboring park. Skylights added over the main entry and a raised pyramid ceiling skylight in the administration area, distribute natural light throughout. Relocating the preschool minimizes the disruption to community events and provides for improved access for parent drop-off and pick-up. A new signalized intersection controls entry/exit access and the addition of a dedicated event drop-off circle improves overall site circulation.
