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Penn State University

Intramural Building

Details
University Park, PA
Location
329,000 SF
Size
2017
Completion
LEED Silver
Certification
Design Architect
Moody Nolan
Associate Architect
AP Architects
Collaborators
Awards
Athletic Business
Facility of Merit
National Intramural Recreation Sports Association
Outstanding Indoor Sports Facilities
2018
Learning by Design
Honorable Mention
2015

A new athletic experience with a sense of place.

 

Situated at the cross roads of a busy intersection the updated building is a gateway to the main campus. Once greeted by a blank brick wall, the repositioned building boasts an inviting and transparent identity, creating an open, dynamic and energized atmosphere to reflect the active program of the building.

Healthy building, healthy people

The wellness-centered program generated a desire to maximize fresh air movement – allowing the facility to breathe. The main entry courtyard embodies a shaded microclimate, to allow the hybrid ventilation systems to draw cooler air through the facility on ideal spring and fall days.

When outside conditions are appropriate, outside air is drawn directly into key fitness spaces through the automated operable windows along the façade and through the pre-cooled outside vegetated atrium, which is then exhausted at the roof. This draws both heat and moisture up and away from exercising occupants.

Approachable entry

The angled nature of the building facades allows the building to gracefully pull away from the street to provide an engaging pedestrian plaza, as well as to establish clear way finding to the building entry.  The building is centrally located and offers access to all four university bus lines.

33%
energy cost savings
88%
construction waste diverted
22%
recycled materials

Responsive design, smart technology and creative engineering were the keys to addressing Penn State’s aggressive energy and sustainability goals. Ventilation strategies and a high-performing façade help reduce the energy load of the building.

Architectural details and materials along the main facade reinforce the project concept and emphasize the pedestrian scale.
Related Content
Recognition
Penn State Intramural Building One of Nine Honored with a Design Award
Ideas
Athletic Business: How to Create Multi-Useful Sports Spaces
Ideas
Campus Rec Magazine: A Conversation With Sports Practice Leader, Troy Sherrard
Ideas
Campus Rec Magazine: Finding Space Where There is None
Ideas
Campus Rec Magazine: Master Planning for Student Success
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