Thomas College, Sukeforth Family Sports Center

Waterville, Maine

Firm

SMRT Architects and Engineers

Client

Thomas College

Area

18,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$10,200,000

Completion Date

05/2023

Ryan Bent Photography

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Design team
Nicholas Vaughn; Bradley Baker; Jeana Stewart; Peter Rand; Lura Wade; David Farrell; Wendy MacDaniels; Toby Richards; Richard Webb; Kerry Dineen; Matthew McCammon; Kenneth Costello

The Sukeforth Family Sports Center is the first phase of a multibuilding sports complex. It serves as an athletic department hub and plays a vital role in recruiting and retaining athletes, students and coaches. Athletics are core to campus life, where 40% of the student body are student-athletes.

The design balances premier athletic facilities with an approachable space for the student population and the public. The center includes a strength and conditioning center, athletic training room, varsity esports cave, and locker rooms designed to promote equitable experiences across genders and sports. It also has equipment storage and laundry amenities, office suites for coaches and staff, and a multipurpose classroom.

The student population and the public can enjoy the light-filled, celebratory reception area that features a Hall of Fame wall and a spectator area overlooking the athletic fields. The center supports the college’s culture with experiential graphics and school branding.
The building is constructed with durable, long-lasting materials like metal roof and brick base, and features a robust thermal envelope and a highly energy-efficient VRF system.