Witherell Recreation Center (CCBA)
Teamwork and innovation created the YMCA-type athletic facility for the youth of the community. The gymnasium, competition pool, and multi-purpose rooms were designed within a compact footprint built on piles to make the most of the downtown site with its poor soils and high water table. Banwell Architects designed a facility with 6-lane competition pool, basketball court with seating for 800, nautilus and free weight rooms, racquetball courts, locker rooms, whirlpool, multi-use rooms, offices, and snack bar. A 3-story south-facing atrium circulates users and provides natural light. On the first floor, a central reception desk greets visitors and simplifies supervision in the adjoining areas. Ramps provide handicapped access and movement of large equipment between floors. Large windows provide natural light for the interior space and allow views into the building. The basketball court is superimposed above the pool on the third floor to conserve open play space on the site and to consolidate the footprint. In 1994, when the organization needed to accommodate a growing number of users, Banwell Architects added a 2-story, 4,000 sf childcare space, conference room, and a second-floor multi-purpose aerobic exercise space. The structure was previously phased and designed for a future third floor addition.
