Home Court supports the Center’s mission as a forum for community, connection, and civic engagement with a focus on promoting well-being.
As part of The Obama Foundation’s mission to create a world with more opportunity, participation, and trust, the Obama Presidential Center serves as a community hub for South Side Chicago and visitors from around the world. The athletic center is a key component of the 19-acre campus, which is also home to a museum, community gardens, public library, and event spaces.
The design of Home Court is inspired by President Obama’s passion for basketball and building community. Envisioned in partnership with local youth and social organizations, the building features a state-of-the-art gymnasium, fitness and training spaces, and community recreation and development programs for all ages.
Visitors are welcomed into a two-story lobby which sheds bright natural light on many of the interior spaces of the building. Like the rest of the campus, Home Court is heated and cooled primarily through the use of geothermal energy, which is a key part of the campus-wide strategy to avoid the use of fossil fuels.
The glass facades at each end of the building connect the interior to views of the adjacent park while embracing visitors and activity from the street.
