PROJECT:

Manchester Recreation Center

The City of Manchester sought to provide a new recreational facility for its residents, but also wanted to create unique features or services that might appeal to a wider market of people from outlying areas. The new center is equipped with “standard” components common to most recreation facilities such as a gymnasium, wellness center, racquetball courts, and aerobics area. In addition to these amenities, the facility contains a premier Natatorium, consisting of a large outdoor pool with many play features, and two indoor pools for exercise and competition. A gymnastics training program is also housed within the new building. The facility is organized along a linear axis, which is the main circulation spine. A secondary circulation axis, perpendicular to the first, divides the building into four quadrants.

The Natatorium quadrant contains 2 indoor pools, along with associated shower and locker room space. The quadrant across from the natatorium holds the aerobics and gymnastics centers, as well as two acquetball courts.

The quadrant below the racquetball courts houses the nursery, teen center, and administrative offices. The quadrant across from the administrative areas contains the Gymnasium. The Gymnasium has a fullsize basketball court and can be subdivided into two smaller basketball or volleyball courts. There is also a second floor running track around the gym. Also on the second floor above the locker rooms is a large, fully-equipped aerobic and free-weight training area.