The center is located in an ecotone, mid-slope between the upland forest of the built campus and the sports courts, the North Creek Trail, and wetlands below. The first level contains fitness facilities; the second level, located at street level, is comprised of office and meeting spaces for student government and Student Life professional staff; and the top level is a flexible, multipurpose event space that connects via bridge to the existing North Creek Event Center.
Supported the striking 20-foot bridge that connects ARC with the events center by constructing a seismic joint and one large column at the ARC. Adorned with lighting underneath and along the railings, the bridge creates a visible, safe corridor between the facilities.
Designed an exposed structure that maximizes future flexibility at each level and emphasizes the architectural aesthetic. Thoughtful detailing throughout the building included precise alignment of the exposed steel braced frames to support the roof that rests along two different elevations.
Coordinated closely with the geotechnical engineer to use aggregate piers in lieu of augercast piles, producing substantial cost savings on this challenging site.
Photography (c) LaCasse Photography
