Coquille Gymnasium

St. Tammany Recreation District # 14 is a publicly financed district situated on 130 acres and offers multi-sport facilities to the community. The original gymnasium and sports fields were completed in 2002 and due to the rapid growth of recreational sports, a new master plan and expansion of the existing facilities was needed.

Phase 1 of the master plan included a new double gymnasium addition to the existing gym facility. The addition was designed for two regulation and eight youth basketball courts with retractable goals and four indoor volleyball courts with removable nets. Perforated metal panels on the inside with acoustical backing help provide sound dampening. Also featured are telescoping wood bleachers, a recessed wood sports floor, high velocity low speed fans, exposed hard round ductwork, and high bay LED lighting. A large North-facing polycarbonate façade with super-graphic logos serves as a backdrop for the outdoor playing fields while allowing for ample, natural daylight to reach the interior double gymnasium.

Connecting the original gymnasium with the new, a glazed entrance corridor was located between the two buildings. The program for the connection includes a new large entrance lobby, a conference room, offices, a concession stand, and support spaces for restrooms, storage, and utilities.

The addition is constructed of steel metal building structure. Three profiles of metal panels were specified on the exterior to provide textural interest. A new galvanized structure with wire mesh was added to the exterior of the existing gymnasium for ivy to grow up and conceal outdoor mechanical units.

Project Role: Design Team, Schematic Design thru Construction Documents

Architect of Record: Holly & Smith Architects

Project Type: Recreational

Location: Covington, Louisiana

Client: St. Tammany Recreation District # 14

Completed: 2011

Size: 23,560 sq. ft.

Cost: $1,800,000

Professional Photography: Marc Lamkin