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Sonoma State University Recreation Center
Rohnert Park, California
Photography:
Chris Costea, Costea Photography
2006 CMACN Awards Edition, “CMU Profiles in Architecture”
Jury Comments: The plan is simple and well thought out. The volumes are nicely articulated; the masonry textures are a pleasing contrast to the glass and wood accents. The variety of masonry units accentuate and define the volumes. The lantern effect of the climbing wall tower is particularly striking and a good contrast to the solid masonry elsewhere. The “living room” feels like it could be a great place to meet and see friends. The gymnasium has wonderful natural light permeating the space and a variety of concrete masonry textures that add unique charm to an otherwise simple space.
The University had two major design goals: one was to
create a gathering space for the students and the second was
to demonstrate the campus’ commitment to
sustainability.
Originally opened in 1961, the campus is a series of non-descript concrete buildings. The new Recreation Center introduces a new aesthetic that better represents the region of Central Sonoma County. Through the use of concrete masonry, the building is composed of burnished and split face CMU complemented by Alaskan yellow cedar, stone, slate, glass and silver standing seam metal roof.
The facility is composed of a 5,500 square-foot single court gymnasium, an 11,000 square-foot two-court gymnasium with divider curtain, two multipurpose studios, fitness areas, fitness testing and wellness area, locker rooms, common areas, and office support spaces.
The Recreation Center is organized about the campus’ “living room.” This two-story lobby houses the climbing/bouldering wall and serves as a lantern to the University and community at large as it defines the entry space and opens directly on the central quad. The lobby features the exposed glu-lam beams and wood tongue and groove ceiling, natural slate floor and wood sheathed pavilion at the check-in desk. It is meant to be an extension of the courtyard with operable doors and a seat wall that welcomes all students to engage in a holistic approach to their education.
These spaces are supported by a reinforced concrete foundation; steel frame structure with load bearing CMU walls with concrete and metal deck floor and roof, and lightweight trusses at the roof.
Architect:
LPA,
Inc.
5161 California Avenue,
Suite 100
Irvine, CA 92617
Jim
Wirick, AIA
Principal
Wendy
Rogers, AIA
Design Principal
Brandon
DeArakal, AIA
Project Manager
Structural
Engineer:
Structural Design Group
General
Contractor:
Wright Construction
Masonry
Contractor:
Gene Amato Masonry
Block
Producer:}
Calstone Company, Inc.
Owner:
Sonoma State University
