Bowling Green State University’s Student Recreation Center brings students in and absolutely wows them with innovation they can see and use. Student engagement is now up 25% as a result of architect The Collaborative’s 185,000- square-foot renovation.
Built in the 1970s, the Rec Center was the leading facility amongst peer institutions. Yet as time passed, needs changed and the building fell from favor. The Collaborative’s feasibility study revealed areas of improvement including: more natural light, upgraded mechanical systems, defined circulation paths, and right-sized program areas.
With open forums, student surveys, and email questionnaires, the design team gathered feedback from students, staff, and administrators. Together they refined conceptual plans to support their comments, including: better visibility control/security, and highlight of the BGSU brand. It was also apparent that the Rec Center needed to remain open while renovation was underway.
As part of their presentation to the Board, The Collaborative developed cost estimates for each proposed component, along with projected yearly escalation costs. Conceptual design renderings were also created to support the decision making process.
Following the Board’s approval, The Collaborative moved forward with the design for a more efficient layout, including: a new curved front glazing wall, a relocated main entry and vestibule, a control desk, and a new centralized stairwell. The design also provided more intuitive homes for the Wellness Center, offices, and pro shop. Upgraded mechanical systems create a more comfortable workout environment.
Phasing the renovation allowed student services to be maintained over the 11 month construction window.
Architect:
The Collaborative
500 Madison Avenue, Toledo, OH 43604
tc.design
Structural Engineer:
LKL Engineers
2735 N. Holland Sylvania Road, #A2
Toledo, OH 43615
Mechanical & Electrical Engineer:
Korda/Nemeth Engineering
1650 Watermark Drive, #200
Columbus, OH 43215
Civil Engineer:
ESA Engineers Surveyors & Associates
5353 Secor Road, Toledo, OH 43623
Construction Manager at Risk:
Gilbane Building Company
950 Main Avenue, #1410, Cleveland, OH 44113
Location: Bowling Green, Ohio
Date Bid: Sept 2013
Construction Period: Oct 2013 to Aug 2014
Total Square Feet: 179,549 Site: 7.4 acres.
Number of Buildings: One.
Building Sizes: Subterranean, 39,090; basement, 60,565; first floor, 61,135; second floor, 18,759; total, 179,549 square feet.
Building Height: Subterranean, 10’; basement, 14′; first floor, 12’8″; second floor, 12’8″; total, 49’4″.
Basic Construction Type: IB/Renovation.
Foundation: Cast-in-place.
Exterior Walls: Brick, curtain wall.
Roof: Membrane, metal.
Floors: Concrete.
Photo: Courtesy of Justin Maconochie
