Prior to the completion of the facility, members of the West Orem Family YMCA met at various dispersed facilities to participate in activities varying from childcare to after-school programs. The new 23,000 SF building sits on seven acres thanks to a generous donation from a local non-profit group and a community capital campaign. The facility was designed as a prototype for small-size YMCA facilities which have spaces for childcare, gymnasiums, administration offices, outdoor athletic fields, and a six-lane outdoor heated swimming pool and splash park.
The plan is organized into four main volumes. Just as the material and color differentiate the volumes on the exterior, the location of the circulation organizes the interior volumes with one main intersection point that meets in the lobby. This nexus allows arriving members to intermingle with other members that are taking a break or finishing their workout. The lobby cuts through the floor plan, permitting views from the entry to the athletic fields located behind the facility. Perforated zinc panels provide sun shading at window locations as well as being used along the fencing for additional privacy around the children’s play yard and splash park.
The project is featured in the Houston Architectural Guide – Third Edition, 2012.