Before entering the building, aspects of the form are placed to create previews of the interior. These are introduced in items such as catenary bollards, square markers, the exterior climbing wall, and an entrance transition space. After entering, the small cafĂŠ and identification check are within sight, and there is energetic music in the air. Seating for the small cafĂŠ is limited to a few tables and steps. Pass the ID check is circulation to the locker rooms below the main floor. On the way to the locker rooms, views to the multi-purpose courts, weight areas, squash and racquetball courts, and general workout activities in the multi-purpose room can be viewed. Above these areas are the multi-use courts for basketball, cricket, and volleyball, and an indoor track. Past the multi-court shell, a transition space into the pool area with swimming lockers located under the pool seating. A tunnel under the pool deck with windows peering into the water of the pool connects it to the varsity courts. The tunnel is much darker than the other areas of the building, and one of the few fully enclosed areas of the building. Through the tunnel and up the stairs is the varsity arena with a lobby area for large gatherings such as university graduations and games. A minimal amount of parking for this facility includes only handicapped spaces and a few spaces around the varsity arena section. The site is very accessible by public transit and bicycle parking has been incorporated. A proposed parking structure near the rail stop will house any campus parking and also hold a structure for park and ride commuters. In addition, the campus health center is moved into Keating Hall, keeping the athletics and health centers separated. The play of shadows cast on fabric at night keep the exterior shell in constant movement reacting to the activities on the interior. Students will be able to see the interior actions being represented on the fabric skin of the center.
FORM
The catenary curve follows the path of an object in space, and is one of the strongest shapes in compression. The curve also has a direct relation to the square; a square wheel can roll smoothly if it travels on a catenary surface. This proposed recreation center for the campus utilizes catenary forms to minimize the amount of concrete used in the structure. The primary envelope is a tensile fabric stretched between thin catenary arches. The hollowness of the forms in turn creates a void that can be used in the ventilation of the building.
UPPER FLOOR PLAN scale 1/64” = 1’-0”
LOWER FLOOR PLAN scale 1/64” = 1’-0”
P R E C A S T C AT E N A RY A R C H
The primary support arches are developed from a series of catenary structures. The shape in both profile and section is a catenary curve to minimize the thickness of concrete in the overall design. To develop this arch as a precast element, the manufacturer will need to create a bladder system to use as a form for the multiple pieces. Although each of the three series of vaults contain the same size pieces, the units that make each of the arches differs. To do this, a bladder or balloon can be filled to a specific size and the concrete can be cast around it. The bladder can then be inflated to a different amount for the next set of pieces. This could also be done in the same manner of hollowcore using a viscous mix and extruding it over the bladder system. In this case, the units would need to be attached in the center and partially filled on site.
S O U T H E L E VAT I O N
The void in the catenary arch can then be utilized as a plenum to ventilate the building, running ductwork in the u-shape between the concrete and fabric skin.
S E C T I O N T H R O U G H M U LT I - C O U R T A R E A
SITE PLAN
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EXPLODED SECTION
The void created by the catenary arch and the envelope can be used as a solar chimney. The air on the southern side in the plenum will be heated and, as it escapes through a vent at the peak of the arch, used to passively cool the building.
CONCEPT
A focus on developing a composite architecture that incorporates simple to complex forms of interactivity and how it is perceived in the social realm based on the innate human impulse to interact. Sensory development of vision, hearing, taste, smell, and touch developed with the structure engages interactive elements to create a holistic sensory approach to and within the site. The creation of an open plan of multiple paths that envelope a story as the user explores the spaces is a result.
LONGITUDINAL SECTION