UMN Recreation Center Expansion

  • Location: Minneapolis, MN
  • Architect: Studio Five and Cannon Design
  • Client: University of Minnesota

Project Highlights

  • Asymmetrical site with adjacencies to existing structures
  • Complex geometry
  • Combined cast-in-place concrete and steel structural systems
  • CMAR project delivery

Overview

Meyer Borgman Johnson helped the architect work through several design iterations before settling on the current design for this addition to the University’s Recreation Center. The asymmetrical site dictates the shape of the new addition, which follows site contours and that of the adjacent structure, effectively using all of the available space. To accommodate a complex geometry and numerous architectural details, several structural systems are used, including cast-in-place concrete wide-module pan-and-joist system as the primary system and steel framing with composite deck over a five-story atrium on the west side of the building. The gym roof is long-span steel joist. Excavation of the site during construction required the design of a retention system that would support the foundation wall of the adjacent Aquatics Center to the north and Scholar’s Walk to the south. Reinforcement of existing framing at the second floor level was also required to connect the new skyway to the existing Aquatics Center. The project’s CMAR delivery demanded close collaboration with the construction manager at very early stages of the project.