Design an indoor aquatic facility to support competition swim meets, therapy and leisure activities for area citizens with an economical building shell to allow the majority of limited project funds to be channeled toward the pool itself.

The design team worked closely with the YMCA’s Pool Committee to develop creative solutions to achieve their goals for the facility within the budget parameters. Extended design workshops with the committee allowed for brainstorming and development of multiple design concepts.

The completed facility achieved the owner’s functional, aesthetic and financial goals. To provide an exterior building shell that was both economical and aesthetically pleasing, SFS used pre-cast concrete and patterned the exterior walls to simulate aerated water, directing a majority of the budget to creating the highest quality, largest indoor pool. The wall structures, formed by an insulated concrete sandwich panel system, feature a repetitive pattern of light that animates the space. Other elements such as sound absorption ceiling panels reflect the fluid nature of water and create a dynamic space.

2010
International Interior Design Association, Mid-America Design Awards - Best of Show: Runner Up

2010
International Interior Design Association, Mid-America Design Awards - Sports & Recreation: Gold

2009
American Institute of Architects Kansas City, Design Excellence Awards - Honor Award