Set amongst the pines just east of the main quad, the new Peter Buck Center for Health and Fitness (LEED Silver) takes full advantage of its central location and provide a dramatic sense of welcome for the entire Bowdoin community. C7A developed an innovative plan to meet the College’s desired programming needs while allowing for future growth by removing one third of the existing Morrell Gymnasium structure and building a highly efficient, modern structure in its place. The architectural design takes full advantage of the site, transforming what was a stark, windowless brick building into a “lantern” of glass – expressing openness and warmth.
The lower level accommodates free weights and rowing machines. The main level is the proud home to Bowdoin’s symbolic Polar Bear and Hall of Fame display in the Lobby and is the primary level for Fitness, with over fifty cardio and circuit training machines. Level two serves as the new home for all of the Athletic Department offices and three large multi-function spaces, and level three houses the Wellness Center and Health Services. Connecting all three levels is a dramatic, state-of-the-art climbing wall. This LEED Silver facility, third in a series of Cambridge Seven Associates projects at Bowdoin, incorporates environmentally friendly features such as energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and eco-friendly materials, as well as a high-performance building envelope.
