The expansion of the Lambright Sports and Wellness Center at Louisiana Tech University synthesizes student athletics on campus by combining a new competitive aquatic center with a variety of recreational, dining, and leisure opportunities that focus on a holistic picture of student wellness – mind and body. In contrast to the existing internalized intramural center, the expansion was conceived with all activities in plain sight to support student choice and promote social experience.

The zinc-clad aquatic center cantilevers over a brick base providing a monumental presence along the primary campus entry. Slender window openings rhythmically positioned within the interlocking zinc panels combine with the patterned curtain wall to create a lantern effect at night. The aquatic center responds to the site conditions by emphasizing visual connections to the football stadium and student apartments while revealing student activity within.

The pedestrian approach to the lobby entrance from campus is framed with a one-story health and wellness clinic to one side, and a 120’ long screen wall comprised of staggered wood slats. The screen wraps up-and-over to form a linear cabana structure that serves the leisure pool terrace. The glazed form of the lobby steps back from the existing building to establish a light-filled thoroughfare that directs student movement between the expansion and the intramural center. A series of interconnected indoor/outdoor spaces on the first and second floor includes areas for exercise, a food venue, and associated dining. All are sheltered below a 40’ tall “super-porch” which opens to expansive views of the leisure pool terrace.

Photos © Alan Karchmer