Georgia College and State University retained Counsilman-Hunsaker, in association with Cannon Design and Menefee + Winer, to design the new $28.2 million Wellness Center located on the West Campus. The 120,000 sq. ft., state-of-the-art “green” athletic complex houses student health, counseling and recreation services in one location as a holistic approach to address the health of students and enhance the college experience. The Center features a natatorium, indoor track, state-of-the-art cardio and strength training equipment, group fitness room, climbing wall, two-court gym, and a multipurpose court for volleyball, indoor soccer, in-line skating, and floor hockey.
Features of the aquatic center include:
4,500 sq. ft. Competition Pool
- Eight lane 25-yard pool
- Climbing walls
- Water basketball
- Water polo
- One and three-meter springboard diving
- 1,000 sq. ft. Leisure Pool
- Current channel
- Underwater therapy bench
- Waterspray and massage jets
The project team employed many sustainable building design strategies including energy-efficient mechanical systems, day-lighting, high-performance glazing and heavily fritted glass, exterior sun-control devices, bio-retention storm water management, recyclable materials and a “super insulated” roof and envelope. In addition an all-white high albedo roof membrane is used to reflect heat gain at the roof. The building achieved LEED Silver certification and serves as a “gateway” building at the campus’s west edge. The engaging facility thrives as a recreation and wellness center for the entire community.
