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Prototype Design Guidelines

U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration Office of Job Corps

Division of Budget and Facilities Support 200, Constitution Avenue , N.W.

Room N-4460 Washington D.C. 20210

October 20, 2003

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Recreation Center

Prototype Design Guidelines

Contents

1. Design Considerations 4-01

2. Basic Modules 4-05

4. Program Requirements 4-14

5. Prototype Plan 4-16

Design Considerations

OBJECTIVES

The objective of the Recreation Center functional prototype facility is to consolidate all major recreational activities in one building that is located in conjunction with the "night campus." The interior arrangement of activities should be flexibly designed such that groupings of activities, or "activity modules," can be added or deleted depending on the amount of available construction funds. In addition, the design itself must be flexible to fit a multitude of varying site conditions, orientation, geography, topography, and climate.

Modules need to be clearly defined so that there is a separation of activities; typically, these include street clothes activities versus gym clothes activities versus aquatic clothes activities (where swimming pools exist). Also, spaces need to be as multi-functional as possible, whereby efficiency is maximized. Due to the varying types of functional activities that are programmed into this building type, design elements must incorporate measures to attenuate sound and control noise transmission from loud activity areas to quiet activity areas.

Other objectives include ensuring student safety, supervision, and control. Sight lines from the central supervision hub to the main activity areas is the most important factor in the overall design.

BASIC ELEMENTS

Anchors, Circulation, and Security The basic design theme is visualized using a "mall concept" which generally has linear circulation paths that terminate at anchors. These serve as major activity areas that have direct lines of sight from a central core.

In the case of the entry terminus, minor anchors may be used to functionally stabilize that circulation path.

Activity modules are then used to infill the space between anchors. Figure 4.1 is a graphic representation of this model where the supervisor area serves as the central core. This ensures good visual connection to the activity areas that typically have large concentrations of trainees. Along with appropriate signage and graphics, this arrangement provides simple, direct routes to the various major spaces within the building. Figure 4.1

Figure 4.2 illustrates how circulation can flow around the supervision core and allow control of the terminal entrance and exit points. Corridor direction, width, and ceiling height are all important physcial parameters in the design and should be sensitively proportioned. Also, the choice of finish materials, textures, etc. must be carefully considered.

Figure 4.3 emphasizes how important the visual connection is to the major activity areas. Most centers have stressed this type of visual control as being the top priority in recreation building design. The designer is encouraged to make liberal use of transparent materials, bright colors, and light (both artificial and natural) to maximize this requirement. It is important to remember that, although elements of control are important, the design must not be "institutional" or "prison-like."

It is important to note that the intent of circulation flow should typically be to and from one point - the main entry. All exit doors, except the main entry, are secondary and should be considered as emergency egress only. They should contain the requisite hardware (panic bars with closers on the interior side, flush with no hardware on the exterior side) to only allow exiting from the building per applicable codes. An exception to this situation could be an exit from the Arts & Crafts area. If a patio is programmed in the Scope of Work, the door(s) should contain typical entry/exit hardware.

Figure 4.2

Figure 4.3

Three Dimensional Relationships Other important design considerations concern the volumetric relationship of the various spaces within the building. Because this type of facility houses such a variety of functional activities, the vertical proportions must be carefully considered.

Recreation functional activities fall into one of four general categories at Job Corps Centers: loud-active;

moderately loud-active; moderately loud-sedentary;

quiet-sedentary.

Figure 4.5

Loud-active activities are usually confined to the gymnasium. This space is used for games such as basketball and volleyball and activities that include assemblies, dances, plays, and other assembly-like functions. The noise level is often very high and the space requires sufficient capacity to accommodate the activity as well as spectators in bleachers. Ancillary spaces that are included in this category are the weight training suite and aerobics room.

Moderately loud-active activities include: billiards (pool), bumper pool, foosball, ping pong, video arcade games, etc. While the games played here are stationary in nature, there still tends to be a fairly high noise level.

Thus, the ceiling height should be higher than the typical 8' or 9' found in more common spaces, and should be constructed with appropriate materials allowing for noise absorption, as well as the clearances required by the nature of the games themselves.

Moderately loud-sedentary activities require spaces that are more intimate in nature. These areas are used as board game rooms such as chess, checkers, monopoly, cards, etc. Media rooms for watching television and movies fall into this category, as well as arts & crafts, hair salon, lounge(s), conversational seating area(s), and snack bar seating. These areas can often have direct connectivity to adjacent exterior areas.

Quiet-sedentary activities include the offices and the learning resources center.

Figures 4.4 illustrate the volumetric relationship between these different activity areas. It is important to sensitively incorporate structural elements, finish materials, fenestration, texture, and color to achieve a successful design.

Figure 4.4

General Building Orientation During the course of many Post Occupancy Evaluations, interviews were held with administration, staff, and students. These discussions, along with extensive building surveys, have produced a series of "lessons learned" to guide future designs to incorporate the elements that work the best and eliminate those that do not work well. These lessons learned have been summarized under the various module groupings.

Findings that apply in general include:

• The building works best in a "T" shaped layout with supervision at the center.

• Toilets/lockers/showers should be close to the gymnasium and the weight training suite/aerobics room.

• The gymnasium anchors one leg; the arts & crafts anchors one leg; the multi-purpose room anchors one leg.

• The mechanical room should be close to the toilet rooms/showers for plumbing efficiency.

• The supervisor space should have direct sight lines into all three major anchors, the weight training suite, the aerobics room, and the entrance lobby as

ENTRY MODULE:

This first major module contains the Vestibule, Lobby, Learning Resources Center (LRC), Snack Bar with requisite seating areas, and the Supervisor Center. See Figure 4.6 to follow the discussion of each individual space.

• Open, spacious, and well lit; use curtain walls, skylights, or clerestory glass for abundance of natural light to the area.

• Design with main circulation path off-center to accommodate ample seating to one side or the other (adjacent to the snack bar).

• The lobby should have direct access to the LRC, the snack bar, the supervisor center, the gymnasium, and the toilet rooms.

• Provide space for queuing inside (many centers use this space for off-site student activity sign-up).

Basic Modules (Kit of Parts) Components There are a variety of different spatial elements that can be incorporated into a recreational facility constructed on a Job Corps campus. These elements vary in size as well as function and are directly related to the programmatic needs of the center. Job Corps Centers vary in size of populatoin from 82 students to over 1900 students who are resident and make daily use of the recreation facilities. In fact, the Recreation Center generally serves as the social hub of the campus.

Due to the wide spectrum of programmatic needs, this building functional type is presented as a kit of parts whereby the individual components may be selected based on need and budget. To this end, components have been grouped together in functional modules. These modules are not presented as absolute in structure, size, or orientation; rather, they are meant to be flexible to provide the greatest latitude for the designer while punctuating program specifics.

Vestibule, Lobby well as all corridors.

• The lobby is the primary entrance and exit to the facility while all other exterior doors serve as alarmed emergency egress.

Learning Resources Center (LRC)

• Maximize counter space and computer network hookups.

• Minimize built-in shelving and cabinet space.

• Provide LAN connections at each station.

• Provide one networked printer station.

• Lighting level should be low and dimmable fluorescent fixtures should be used.

• Minimize natural lighting glare on CRT screens.

• Finishes should be very soft allowing little acoustical reverberation.

• Acoustically isolate from other activities.

• Accommodate an entry from the vestibule for after-hours accessibility (to isolate from the remainder of the building).

• Provide space and power for vending machines near seating area in Lobby.

• Finishes should be tough and sturdy yet easy to maintain in all public areas.

• Bright colors with plentiful graphics are important.

• Must be connected to the gymnasium wall with vision panels on three sides and directly into the gymnasium.

• Sight lines should be directly down all corridors.

• All controls for lighting, temperature, public address, etc., should be located in this space.

• Should be well lit and highly visible, especially from the entrance to the building.

• Ample storage space for distributing game paraphernalia, small equipment, pool cues and balls, etc., should be provided.

• Should be located off the lobby and should be securable with roll down security window at the open serving counter (also desirable to have a serving window directly to an exterior patio if the site permits).

• Provide storage room with access from within the snack bar.

• Provide sufficient power for convienience outlets, microwave oven, refrigerator/freezer(s), soft drink dispensers, ice machine, small tabletop pizza oven, coffee maker, etc.

(specified in the project's Scope of Work).

• Provide ample counter space with base cabinets and wall cabinets (lockable).

• Provide room for product racks in the center of the floor.

Snack Bar

Supervisor Center

Figure 4.6

GYMNASIUM MODULE

This second major module contains the Gymnasium, Platform, Storage, and other ancillary spaces. See Figure 4.7 to follow the discussion of each individual space.

Gymnasium

• A gable structure works well (pre-engineered steel columns and beams).

• Include ample clerestory glass at both long sides taking care to mitigate any possible glare.

• Minimize noise reverberation by using acoustical panels on walls and insulating panels between roof trusses.

• Flooring for the gym must be site-specific based on water table elevation with the following criteria:

- Wood on sleepers (the preferred system but must have vapor barrier).

- Monolithic rubber (needs good adherence to eliminate bubbles from forming).

- Sheet rubber with seamed edges.

• Bleachers sized to 80% of student population.

• Locate bleachers opposite the platform (usually on the long side of the basketball court).

• Include sleeves for volleyball net posts.

• Lighting should be a combination of metal halide and fluorescent to enable instant light when needed.

• Sound system for music/dances with a small room off the stage to securely house the amplification equipment.

• Retractable baskets.

• Electronic scoreboard located opposite the bleachers.

• Platform (stage) located opposite the bleachers.

• Climbing wall on available blank wall opposite the bleachers with all required harness support from the structure above.

• Ample storage rooms for both chairs and equipment.

• Special attention is needed to ensure proper design of HVAC, humidity control, and fresh air distribution.

Figure 4.7

Storage

• Double doors at gymnasium floor level for storing large equipment and chair racks.

• Some direct access to platform level.

• Maximize area to conform to building geometry.

Platform

• Serves as a low stage between 18" and 24" above the floor of the gymnasium.

• Access is by stair(s) from the front and ramp for accessibility at the rear.

• Some storage access directly from the platform.

• Small sound room for amplification equipment accessed from the platform.

FITNESS MODULE

This third major module contains the Weight Training Suite and the Aerobics Room. See Figure 4.8 to follow the discussion of each individual space.

Weight Training Suite

• One large facility serving both genders with the following elements:

- Central space for weight machines.

- Side room for treadmills, stairmasters, exercise bikes, etc.

- Side room for free weights.

- Partitions and knee walls should be low to keep space open.

• Ample space around equipment for waiting and circulation should be provided.

• Provide ample ventilation and fresh air.

• Should be well lit with abundant natural light.

• Provide vision panels on corridor wall to allow direct line of sight to supervision center.

• Size of the suite should be directly proportional to the center resident trainee population (see project Scope of Work).

• Entry to suite should be two 3'x7' doors with no astragal.

• High ceilings to accommodate the equipment.

• Mirrors in central space on one wall only with graphics on other walls.

• Mirrors in free weight room on one wall only but minimum 2'-6" above finished floor.

• Provide low padding on walls behind the treadmills.

• Finishes should be tough and sturdy.

• Floors should be high impact, interlocking rubber tiles or sheet rubber over VCT.

Aerobics Room

• One room will serve both genders.

• Space should be open design with vision panels on corridor walls to allow direct line of sight to supervision center.

• Well lit with natural light.

• Ample ventilation and fresh air.

• Mirrors on one wall only.

• Finishes to be tough and sturdy.

Figure 4.8

RECREATION MODULE

The fourth major module contains the Recreation Room, Theater, Multipurpose Room, and Arts & Crafts. See Figure 4.9 to follow the discussion of each individual space.

Recreation Room

• Design for moderately loud-active activities including:

- Billiards/Pool

- Foosball

- Ping Pong

- Bumper Pool

- Video Arcade Games

- Shuffleboard

- Air Hockey

• Could be an open space that anchors one wing.

• Ample space with sufficient circulation space.

• If located in a closed room, vision panels should be tempered glass on corridor wall with open sight lines to supervision center.

• Finishes should be tough and sturdy.

• Floors should be VCT or sheet vinyl.

• Well lit with abundant natural light.

Multi-purpose Room

• Design for moderately loud-sedentary activities including:

- Board games

- Chess, checkers, etc.

- Cards

- Conversation groups

- TV viewing

- Lounging

• Provide comfortable seating for lounging, reading, or watching TV.

• Provide TV "nooks" where sound will not interfere with adjacent activities.

• Design space to accommodate floor TVs rather than ceiling or wall mounted TVs.

• Provide vision panels on corridor wall with open sight lines to supervision center.

• Finishes should be soft but durable.

• Natural light can be subdued with some direct task lighting over game tables and minimized glare on TV screen(s).

Theater

• Provide 6" high tiers with fixed seating.

• Large screen TV or projection screen.

• Prewired sound system and speakers built-into walls.

Figure 4.9

• Must have lockable equipment closet for all electronics and controls (could be casework or cabinetry).

• Finishes should be soft but durable:

- Floors: Carpet

- Walls: Gypsum wallboard with acoustical panels for sound insulation

• Low lighting levels with dimmer control.

• No natural light preferred.

• Ample ventilation and fresh air.

Arts & Crafts

• Lockable space that anchors one wing.

• Vision panels on corridor wall with direct line of sight to supervision center if possible (not required since this is usually a supervised activity).

• Large, open room with perimeter counters, base cabinets, and wall cabinets.

• Provide slop sink as well as built-in counter sink.

• Provide storage space for molds, paints, and other general craft supplies.

• Provide separate room for kiln(s) with proper ventilation.

• Well lit with plentiful natural light.

• Finishes should be tough and durable.

- Floor: VCT or epoxy-painted concrete

- Walls: Painted Gypsum board or

CMU

• Exterior door to outside courtyard or patio, if the site allows.

SUPPORT MODULE

This fifth major module contains the Hair Salon, Student Government, as well as offices for Center Standards, Group Life Supervisor, Recreation Supervisor, and Facility Director, and any other generic offices required by the project-specific Scope of Work. See Figure 4.10 to follow the discussion of each individual space.

Figure 4.10

Hair Salon

• Provide a minimum of two salon-style wash sinks each with a retractable water hose/aerator.

• Provide counters with convenience outlets for hair dryers, curlers, etc.

• Provide mirrors along one wall from countertop to ceiling.

• Finishes should be tough and durable yet attractive.

Student Government

• Private, lockable space large enough for small meetings.

• Provide marker board on one wall.

• Finishes are soft typical of a conference room.

Offices

• Private, lockable space large enough for two people.

• Finishes are soft typical of a small office.

• Power and lighting layout typical of a small office.

UTILITY MODULE

Toilets:

• The total number of fixtures will be based on center population.

• Fixture parity for genders govern internal layout.

• Locate close to gymnasium, weight training suite, and aerobics.

• Toilets to be floor mounted.

• Toilet and urinal partitions to be floor mounted only, preferably stainless steel.

• Electronic flush valves and water spigots are preferred (if not, water spigots should be timed).

• No goose neck type faucets should be specified.

• All dispensers (paper towel, toilet tissue, sanitary napkins, etc.) to be heavy duty, institutional grade.

• No dispenser should be coin operated.

• All louvers/grilles/registers to be rust resistant.

• Ample floor drains with floor sloped to drains.

• Finishes to be impervious and durable.

- Floor: Ceramic tile with dark grout

- Walls: Ceramic tile on masonry, floor to ceiling

- Ceilings: Painted gypsum board (mold/ mildew resistant type) or waterproof cement plaster

• All toilet facilities to be in compliance with ADA and/or UFAS.

This sixth major module contains the Toilet Rooms, Locker Rooms, Shower Rooms, Janitor Closet, Mechanical Room, and Electrical Room. See Figure

4.11 in the next page to follow the discussion of each individual space.

Locker/Shower Rooms

• Compartmentalize from the toilet rooms with lockable door(s).

• Lockers should be stacked double units, constructed of high impact polyporpylene copolymer plastic or factory painted metal.

Janitor Closet

• Include a floor sink and a slop sink.

• Provide shelving and hooks.

• Provide ample exhaust using mechanical ventilation switched with the light fixture.

• Finish with painted CMU and exposed structure.

• Locate adjacent to the toilet rooms.

• Locker areas should have wood benches on pedestals.

• Showers should be individual units with a floor drain with hot/cold mixing valve.

• Each shower unit should have a dressing area with privacy curtain and towel hooks.

• Ample floor drains with floor sloped to drains.

• Finishes to be impervious and durable.

- Floor: Ceramic tile with dark grout

- Walls: Ceramic tile on masonry, floor to ceiling

- Ceilings: Painted gypsum board (mold/mildew resistant type) or waterproof cement plaster

Figure 4.11

Mechanical/Electrical Rooms

• Provide sufficient space for all mechanical and electrical needs.

• Locate close to toilet rooms.

• Access directly from exterior.

MODULAR FLEXIBILITY

The designer is encouraged to take advantage of the flexibility of this programming approach by adjusting the final building geometry to fit the site and Center's needs.

Figure 4.12 illustrates some of the many possibilities that work well while maintaining general programmatic goals.

Figure 4.12

Program Requirements

ADJACENCIES

Figure 4.13 outlines the functional relationships between the various spaces that make up the Recreation Center. The actual spaces required for each individual project will vary based on Center population, and Regional needs. These will be specifically designated in the project Scope of Work. The designer is to use this information as a guide and adjust the overall design accordingly.

In general, for each project, the Scopes of Work will specify the space sizes to which the designer shall work. Net square footage is defined as the actual usable area for a specific space within the building envelope and is measured from finished inside wall to finished inside wall. Excluded from NSF are unused basements, unused attics, open and enclosed porches, stairways, elevator shafts, walls and partitions (except knee walls), structural elements, egress corridors, toilets, janitor closets, electrical or power rooms, and mechanical equipment rooms.

Areas not included in NSF measurements are considered part of the building gross square footage (GSF). GSF is defined as the total area of all floors extended to the normal outside face of the building walls, including basements but excluding unused attic space.

NSF to GSF ratios vary depending on the efficiency of the building lay-out but an approximate ratio of 0.79 times GSF can be assumed to obtain the correct NSF for recreation buildings at Job Corps centers.

Figure 4.13

FINISHES

Room finishes can vary greatly from center to center. Figure 4.14 is an attempt to summarize the types of finishes that can be expected in a recreation facility. Each project Scope of Work will identify any specific room finish requirements, fixtures, equipment, furniture, casework, etc. Unless otherwise specified, the designer should use these.

Figure 4.14 Room Finishes Matrix

Prototype Plan

ACCEPTABLE ARRANGEMENT

The following floor plan represents an acceptable model layout for a typical Job Corps recreation building with the basic amenities for a center with a population of about 300 trainees. It is understood that each project presents unique requirements to the designer but the end result of the design exercise should closely resemble this plan in basic organization, functional layout, and (in most cases) physical size. These parameters could change depending on a number of variables, but these will be identified in each specific Scope of Work.

The goal of presenting this prototype design is to express the programmatic requirements as well as the physical needs of Job Corps recreation facilities. However, the concepts presented herein are meant to be flexible and the designer is encouraged to present alternative solutions within the prescribed specifics of the project Scope of Work.