The new building replaces a dreary and unwelcoming 1970s recreation center that lacked modern amenities yet remained a beloved community resource. The local community and Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park stakeholder groups were engaged partners throughout the early design stages and were critical in guiding the programmed spaces, including the only performance theater within a Baltimore City rec center. Home to a thriving youth-based theater program, the previous facility lacked space for these young, talented performers, thus restricting the program’s growth.

Understanding the community’s needs, the design team worked closely with Baltimore City Recreation and Parks (BCRP) to develop a highly efficient floor plan to ensure parity among other BCRP facilities by allocating fitness space within the central core to allow for the additional performance space. Additionally, the 30,000-SF facility houses a gymnasium, natatorium, fitness area, dance studio, and classroom. Interior spaces are flexible and durable, able to accommodate a range of intergenerational programming.

New site features include a splash area adjacent to the natatorium, playground, basketball courts, and picnic area. Designed to be compliant with the International Green Construction Code (IgCC), the building’s sustainable design elements include light colored roofing materials to minimize heat island effect, water-efficient plumbing fixtures, recycled materials, and low-emitting materials. Energy reduction initiatives include LED energy efficient lighting throughout the building, natural daylighting coupled with fritted glazing and sun shading devices on the exterior to control the amount of direct sunlight entering the building, and energy efficient HVAC systems.