PROTOinc was commissioned for the design of a new gymnasium and multi-purpose function space for the Lafayette Community Center complex. Replacing an old school building that was at the end of its useful lifespan, this project -- named "The Manzanita Room" by the client in reference to the densely-forrested backdrop -- adapted an off-the-shelf metal building, customized and modified to suit programmatic and qualitative criteria. From haunted houses to puppy training, ballroom dancing to community meetings, kickball to seniors' tai chi: all these constituents had preferences that we had to accommodate. Instead of diluting the project though, the push and pull of this wide spectrum of user groups helped differentiate the project and hone its form. This industrial shed typology and its large-span carapace structure afforded fine-tuning of facade apertures and materials underneath, a flexible generic envelope that became highly specific.

 

All photos by David Wakely, Copyright 2016

Translucent fiberglass panels form a continuous clerestory "lantern," bathing the interior in natural light while reducing heat gain in hot weather.