Selected out of 270 entries, Cannon Design was honored with an Excellence in Architecture Award (Special Mention) from the AIA, New England, for its work on the Student Recreation and Fitness Center at the University of Maine in Orono.
The largest building project ever undertaken at the University, the Student Recreation Center features a three-court gymnasium, fitness center, natatorium, suspended walking/jogging track, and support spaces. The contemporary building fits seamlessly into its heavily wooded site and incorporates sustainable building materials and systems including heat-recovery systems and recyclable materials. Two double-height, skylighted galleries – one north-south and one east-west – form the primary circulation. Inside, exposed wood structure and wood paneling evoke a natural, organic ambiance. Extensive use of glass on the south façade presents views of the activities within and provides users with views out to the scenic campus. The building’s exterior material palette of architectural precast concrete panels, copper panels, field stone, and glass walls harmonizes with the natural setting. The project has achieved LEED Silver certification.
“We are thrilled that this project was honored for design excellence by the AIA/NE. Our goal was to help transform the campus in a positive way with the least impact on the environment while enhancing the lives of students, faculty, staff and others,” notes Colleen McKenna, Associate AIA, LEED®, AP, Associate Principal.
