North YMCA Recreation Center, Spokane, Washington

The North YMCA is a LEED Gold Certified recreation center serving the Spokane, Washington community. The building was designed to stretch along the edge of the plateau and bend with existing site contours. A two-story “bow-tie” shaped central space connects the various program areas and creates a strong visual and physical connection between these spaces. Lounge areas are provided at the wider ends of the space and have views into the natatorium and the gymnasium. The exposed wood roof structure provides a warm character and slopes up to the northwest and southeast to allow daylight into the heart of the building. The natatorium is located at the south end of the building for the best solar orientation. The gymnasium, fitness area, administration, YWCA and the central space are designed to accommodate future expansion to the north. The fitness area is located on the upper floor and provides views into the natatorium, the central gathering space, child watch, teen lounge and exterior views to the site. The interior character is designed to be warm and inviting to the diverse population that will experience the facility.

The North YMCA facility was designed and constructed using the USGBC LEED-NC 2.2 Green Building Rating System with a goal to achieve a minimum of Silver Certification after completion. The project has a number of notable ‘green’ features and strategies including:

The project is located in a growing area north of the city of Spokane, close to other community amenities and residential development. A half-mile trail loops through the site and connects to the existing trail system that extends to the surrounding neighborhoods.
Significant open space is part of the project, earning both a credit for open space and an innovation credit for double the open space required by LEED.
The landscape design and irrigation system efficiency results in a 63.8% water savings over the baseline.
An energy model was prepared during design to assist with decisions such as thermal envelope options and mechanical system options. The project design saves 25.2% in annual energy cost compared to the ASHRAE 90.1-2004 baseline.
Efficient plumbing fixtures, such as dual flush toilets, low flow faucets and showerheads, help the project achieve over 40% water savings compared to the Energy Policy Act baseline case.
Indoor air quality is protected by providing ventilation rates that exceed ASHRAE 62-2004, providing CO2 monitoring and specifying low emission interior materials for paints, coatings, sealants, adhesives, carpets and composite wood products.

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North YMCA Recreation Center - Spokane, Washington