Viewable from Kirkwood Boulevard, the Recreation Center acts as the north gateway for Kirkwood Community College’s Cedar Rapids Campus. The one-story building is constructed from precast concrete, metal panels, and a high-performance glazing system. Retention pods with lighted foundations to the west add a dramatic effect to the setting.
The facility houses a 200-meter running track, which dictates the building’s overall form. Other spaces include a cardiovascular room with a weight training area, an aerobics room, three basketball courts (two with wood floors and one with synthetic flooring), and large locker rooms.
The generously sized “hang out” space near the entrance organizes the traffic flow and provides a transitional space for those entering and exiting. A ten-foot projection screen and comfortable lounge seating encourage students and guests to linger and interact.
Translucent glazed partitions allow daylighting to permeate into the building’s core while providing privacy in necessary areas. Other interior materials include exposed anodized aluminum framing systems, glass mosaic tiles, and quartz solid surfacing. Together, these elements create a light, airy, and high-tech look and feel while minimizing maintenance.
The facility serves as a value-added amenity for Kirkwood’s students and staff, serving the college as a recruitment and retention tool.
Project Type: Recreation
Location: Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Completed: 2004
Size: 43,500 sf
