Vassar College – Recreational Center

Poughkeepsie, New York


Quick Facts: 

Client: Vassar College

Market: Academic

Size: 62,000 gsf

Services: Architecture, Interiors

Photographer: Jessica Marcotte

Project Team: Michael Winstanley – Design Architect, Cannon Design – Architect of Record

Numerous initiatives were established as a result of a sports and recreation master planning process. One of the projects identified was the renovation of the existing Walker Fieldhouse and the addition of programs to enhance the facility.

While the project is located in a remote area of the main campus, Vassar requested that the new addition reflect the general context of the main campus. The design of the addition sought to complement the numerous existing styles on the campus and yet not become a slave to the issues of historicism. While the exterior materials retain the fabric of the campus with the red brick and white trim, the detailing is decidedly modern. The interiors are also very modern with abundant daylight, white walls and dark colored floors.

A new entrance to both buildings was designed. People entering the complex now pass through a new courtyard under Bosc pear trees. A garden pavilion highlights the entry canopy.

The existing Walker Fieldhouse facility was renovated to house a tennis and intramural program. The addition provided new team rooms, a competition gymnasium, a weight training room, multipurpose rooms, administrative offices, and an enlarged lobby with concessions to serve as the student lounge.

Michael Winstanley AIA AICP was the Design Principal for this project while he was a Vice President and Design Leader at Cannon Design.