University of Chicago – Myers-McLoraine Natatorium

Chicago, IL

From its inception in 1892, the University of Chicago has grown to operate two major national laboratories, an internationally renowned hospital, a pre-K-12 private school, a charter school with three distinct campuses, a professional theatre, museums, and the nation’s largest academic press. The university also has a strong global presence with facilities in London, Paris, and Singapore.

To accommodate additional growth in swimming and diving programs, Counsilman-Hunsaker was commis-sioned by the University of Chicago to design a state-of-the-art Olympic-sized swimming pool at their main campus in Chicago. The award-winning Myers-McLoraine Natatorium includes:

• 12,640 sq. ft. 50-meter competition pool
• Moveable bulkhead, allowing for 50-meter, 25-meter, and 25-yard courses
• Starting blocks that can be mounted on the pool’s ends or sides for long- or short-course events
• Diving well with one-meter springboards and two three-meter springboards
• Upper-deck bleacher seating

Operational Audit / Best Practices
In 2009, the University of Chicago retained Counsilman-Hunsaker to evaluate the pool and its respective support systems while showing Best Practices in current industry standards and green sustainability. The report provided new technologies and equipment that would enhance the operations of the facility; moreover, Counsilman-Hunsaker met with users, staff, and lifeguards to create a maintenance schedule for future repairs as well as operational concerns to assist the staff in maintaining the facility over the next several years.

Design Awards and Publications:
2006 & 2007 – ‘Innovative Architecture’ award
Recreation Management magazine

2004 – ‘Outstanding Design’ award
Midwest Construction magazine

2004 – ‘Architectural Showcase’
Athletic Business magazine