Murray State University, Susan E. Bauernfeind Student Recreation & Wellness Center

Murray, Kentucky

Firm

Sherman-Carter-Barnhart Architects

Client

Murray State University

Area

72,893 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$8,935,088

Completion Date

02/2005

The Susan E. Bauernfeind Student Recreation & Wellness Center includes two multipurpose courts; a gymnasium; a mezzanine running track; a lap and recreation pool, including a spa and whirlpool; aerobics and multipurpose rooms; and fitness equipment including circuit strength training, cardiovascular and free-weight systems. The facility also has an Internet cafe, juice bar, game area, private study areas and an exterior courtyard. The new Wellness Center incorporates an arcade at the front entry, which links directly with the adjacent basketball arena.
The design team captured students’ vision of a facility that serves as a central gathering point by designing a dynamic, interactive lobby space where each available activity is visible.
The design team also master-planned the northern section of the campus. In doing so, it was able to again capture the students’ vision of the facility’s role as a central gathering point. The Student Recreation & Wellness Center sits between the campus residential zone, and the sports and recreation area of campus. The building also is situated so that an attractive grove of trees is maintained and used as an outdoor recreation area adjacent to the pool.
Materials such as brick and stone are used to recall the traditional elements of the campus and create an overall appearance that is more dynamic and open.