Higher Education

CSU East Bay Recreation & Wellness Center

Hayward, California

The project consists of a two-story 56,630-sq.ft. facility with state-of-the-art technology in the areas of health, fitness, and recreation. Program spaces include a two-court gymnasium, jogging track, fitness center, locker rooms, multi-purpose fitness studios, administrative offices, juice & snack bar, outdoor recreational equipment & storage, and a Wellness Center with associated support spaces. The objective was to create a recreational and wellness solution that is an exciting and lively place to see and be seen, where students can work out, hang out, and relax while immersed in a sustainable environment.

Design inspiration was derived directly from site, budget, program and the need for social space to enhance student life. The building site presents unique conditions: very forgiving climate (primary need is to heat rather than cool), views to the bay, gateway to campus and student node, while maximizing existing parking. Simple building forms, cost effective tilt-up concrete construction, and modest materials make the most of a limited budget, while taking cues from the surrounding campus buildings. The exterior envelope responds to different interior conditions and distinct views of the bay, in fact, creating a semi-opaque "box" (gym) and a transparent glass "jewel" (fitness). The main organizing space, the lounge, is an environment flooded with natural light, serving as a transition between tilt-up box and glass jewel. This visual dichotomy is further emphasized by the light monitor that floods the space with natural light. It is this light that emanates from within the building at night that creates a beacon. The tilt-up concrete panels, used to form the exterior skin and structure, also possess great thermal mass qualities. Glazing was placed in front of the panels, effectively creating a solar thermal collector (trombe wall) to heat the interior space. The glass jewel is protected with a perforated aluminum veil, minimizing direct sunlight while maintaining views. Radiant heating, shaded exterior glazing and drought tolerant landscape are all used to create a sustainable environment. Intelligent interior lighting, naturally ventilated spaces and mechanical systems reduce the energy required to operate the facilities, allowing the building to perform 32% better than California Title 24 energy requirements.