DG 1110-3-132

Design Guide
RECREATION
CENTERS

DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A
Approved for Public Release
Distribution Unlimited

Department of the Army

Engineering Division
Military Construction Directorate
Office of the Chief of Engineers

Washington, DC 20314

January 1976

20020702 092
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Foreword - January 1976

FOREWORD

The Design Guide (DG) series has been established to replace selected material previously
issued under the standard design medium by the Engineering Division, Military
Construction Directorate, Office of the Chief of Engineers, U.S. Army.
This guide governs design of Army Recreation Centers. The Army program for Recreation
Centers is contained in AR-28-1. Recreation Centers support the mission of the Army
Recreation Services by providing professionally planned social, cultural, educational,
amusive and information services which are responsive to the leisure needs of the Army
community.
This guide states basic planning and design considerations, criteria, and spatial
organization principles, and illustrates how the guidance can be applied to respond to
different requirements. This guide is applicable to all new construction projects for Army
Recreation Centers and projects involving modernization of existing facilities.
Detailed development of this guide was under the direction of the Special Projects
Section, Structures Branch, of the Engineering Division. Major parts of the material
contained herein are based on the results of an architectural services contract with the
firm of Hartman-Cox Architects, Washington, DC, and their consulting firm,
Environmental Research Group, Philadelphia, Pa., under Contract No. DACA-73-73-C-
0007. The functional requirements in this guide have been developed in conjunction with,
and approved by, the U.S. Army Recreation Services Office in the Office of the Adjutant
General.
Distribution of this guide is limited. Additional essential copies are available from the
OCE Publications Depot, 890 Pickett Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22304.
Users are invited to send comments and suggested improvements to HQDA
(DAEN-MCE-A) Washington, DC 20314.
FOR THE CHIEF OF ENGINEERS:

LIMITED DISTRIBUTION LEE S. GARRETT

Chief, Engineering Division
Director of Military Construction
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Table of Contents - January 1976

TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE PAGE

FOREWORD I CHAPTER 5 SPATIAL ORGANIZATION

5-1 OBJECTIVES 5-1
CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 5-2 PRINCIPLES 5-1
1-1 PURPOSE 1-1 5-3 CRITERIA 5-1
1-2 SCOPE 1-1 5-4 CONCEPTS 5-3
1-3 REFERENCES 1-1
CHAPTER 6 CASE STUDIES
1-4 FORMAT 1-1
6-1 GENERAL 6-1
1-5 EMPHASIS 1-2
RESPONSIBILITIES 6-2 12,700 SF CENTER 6-2
1-6 1-2
6-3 19,800 SF CENTER 6-7
CHAPTER 2 PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 6-4 27,800 SF CENTER 6-13
2-1 ARMY RECREATION PRO- 6-5 FOUND SPACE 6-18
GRAM 2-1 6-6 REMODELED SPACE 6-22
2-2 PLANNING THE ARMY
RECREATION CENTER 2-5
2-3 SELECTING THE SITE 2-7

CHAPTER 3 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

3-1 DESIGN OBJECTIVES 3-1
3-2 DESIGNING THE SITE 3-1
3-3 DESIGNING THE BUILD-
ING 3-4
3-4 DESIGNING THE INTE-
RIORS 3-8
3-5 DESIGNING FOR ENERGY
CONSERVATION 3-13
3-6 DESIGNING FOR THE PHYS-
ICALLY HANDICAPPED 3-14

CHAPTER 4 INDIVIDUAL SPACE CRITERIA

4-1 GENERAL 4-1
4-2 TRANSITIONAL ACTIV-
ITIES 4-3
4-3 LARGE GROUP ACTIV-
ITIES 4-8
4-4 SMALL GROUP ACTIV-
ITIES 4-17
4-5 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIV-
ITIES 4-34
4-6 REFRESHMENT ACTIV-
ITIES 4-41
4-7 SERVICE ACTIVITIES 4-50
4-8 OUTDOOR ACTIV-
ITIES 4-54
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - List of Figures - January 1976

LIST OF FIGURES
PAGE PAGE

2-1 Diagrammatic Installation Land Use 2-7 4-19 Carrels 4-29

4-20 Special Interest Area 4-31
3-1 Site Analysis 3-2 4-21 Special Interest Area Alternative Use
3-2 Site Design 3-3 Plans 4-32
3-3 Transitional Space 3-4 4-22 Administrative Activities 4-33
3-4 Acoustical Zones 3-4 4-23 Control Center 4-34
3-5 Adaptability of Large Group Activity 4-24 Administrative Offices 4-36
Area 3-5 4-25 Information, Tour & Travel 4-38
3-6 Coordination of Exposed Structural 4-26 Refreshment Activities 4-40
Members 3-6 4-27 Vending Machine Area 4-41
3-7 Integration of Mechanical and Elec- 4-28 Vending Area - 12,700 SF Center
trical Systems with Architectural Furniture & Equipment Layout 4-43
Design 3-6 4-29 Vending Area - 19,800 SF Center
3-8 Diagrammatic Bioclimate Chart 3-6 Furniture & Equipment Layout 4-43
3-9 Variety of Light Levels 3-7 4-30 Snack Bar 4-44
3-10 Subdivision Large Group Area into 4-31 Snack Bar Furniture & Equ pment
Small Group Activities 3-9 Layout 4-46
3-11 Use of Built-in and Movable Furniture 3-11 4-32 Amusement Center 4-47
3-12 Amount of Solar Energy 3-13 4-33 Amusement Center Furniture & Equip-
3-13 Sun's Path during Year 3-13 ment Layout 4-49
3-14 Solar Shading Devices 3-13 4-34 Outdoor Activities 4-53
3-15 Dimensions of Man in a Wheelchair 3-14 4-35 Terrace 4-54
4-36 Entry Court 4-56
4-1 Transitional Activities 4-2
4-2 Circulation/Lounge Areas 4-3 5-1 Spatial Organization Conceptual Di-
4-3 Lobby 4-5 agram 5-3
4-4 Large Group Activities 4-7 5-2 Linear Scheme 5-4
4-5 Central Program Area 4-8 5-3 Central Scheme 5-4
4-6 Central Program Area Alternative Use 5-4 Dispersed Scheme 5-5
Plans 4-9 5-5 Axial Scheme 5-5
4-7 Platform 4-11
4-8 Pantry 4-14 6-1 Spatial Diagram 12,700 SF Center 6-2
4-9 Pantry Equipment Layout 4-15 6-2 Plan 12,700 SF Center 6-5
4-10 Small Group Activities 4-16 6-3 Elevation & Section 12,700 SF Center 6-6
4-11 Active Games Area 4-17 6-4 Spatial Diagram 19,800 SF Center 6-8
4-12 Television Lounge 4-19 6-5 Plan 19,800 SF Center 6-11
4-13 Table Game Area 4-21 6-6 Elevation & Section 19,800 SF Center 6-12
4-14 Open Multipurpose Area 4-23 6-7 Spatial Diagram 27,800 SF Center 6-14
4-15 Open Multipurpose Area Alternative 6-8 Plan 27,800 SF Center 6-16
Use Plans 4-24 6-9 Elevation & Section 27,800 SF Center 6-17
4-16 Enclosed Multipurpose Area 4-25 6-10 Plan Found Space Building 6-18
4-17 Enclosed Multipurpose Area Alter- 6-11 Plan Renovated Found Space 6-21
native Use Plans 4-26 6-12 Redecoration of Ballroom to Decrease
4-18 Telephone Lounge 4-27 Its Apparent Sire 6-25

III
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - List of Figures - January 1976

List of Figures - continued PAGE

6-13 Remodeling of Ballroom into a Central

program and Small Group Activities 6-26
Areas
6-14 Renovations for Special Interest Room,
TV Lounge and ITT Booth 6-27
6-15 Entry Court Redesign 6-29
6-16 Terrace Redesign 6-29
6-17 Plan Remodeled Center 6-30
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - List of Tables - January 1976

LIST OF TABLES
PAGE

TABLE 2-1. Activity Matrix for Game Exam-

ple 2-3
2-2. Activity Matrix for Theme Pro-
gram Example 2-3
2-3. Civilian Staff Requirements 2-5
2-4. Authorized Space Criteria Re-
lated to Enlisted Strength 2-5
2-5. Required Site Utility Examples 2-8
2-6. Site Acreage Requirements 2-8

TABLE 5-1. Affinity Matrix 5-2

5-2. Spatial Organization Scheme
Evaluation 5-6

TABLE 6-1. Spatial Requirements 12,700

SF Center 6-3
6-2. Spatial Requirements 19,800
SF Center 6-9
6-3. Spatial Requirements 27,800
SF Center 6-15
6-4. Spatial Requirements Found
Space 6-20
6-5. Comparison of 1955 Design
Standards and Design Guide
Criteria 6-24
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Introduction - January 1976

CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1-1 PURPOSE 1-3 REFERENCES
a. DESIGN. This guide provides criteria to a. FUNCTIONAL NEEDS. The following
govern the design of Army Recreation Centers, Army Regulation is important in understanding
and to aid in the evaluation of such designs. the functions of an Army Recreation Center:
This guide is directed towards improving early AR 28-1 - Army Recreation Services
design decisions and towards the development
b. DOD CONSTRUCTION CRITERIA. The
of realistic, cost-effective spaces in conjunction
following manual is important in understanding
with the Army regulations and DOD criteria
the basic criteria governing the planning and
referenced herein.
design of Department of Defense facilities:
b. PLANNING. This guide is also intended to
provide general guidance for using service DOD 4270.1 -M - Construction Criteria Manual
personnel and Corps of Engineers field offices c. PROJECT PLANNING. The following reg-
in planning facilities for inclusion in military ulations are important in understanding proce-
construction programs. dures for planning facilities in conjunction with
c. IMPROVEMENT. It is expected that using the development of Military Construction,
service personnel will find additional use for Army (MCA) Programs:
this guide in developing improvements or in AR 415-15 - MCA Program Development
better utilizing existing facilities. AR 415-17 - Empirical Cost Estimates for
Military Construction
1-2 SCOPE d. DESIGN EXECUTION. The following
a. APPLICATION. This document is applica- Army and Engineer Regulations are important
ble to all new construction projects for Army in understanding execution procedures which
Recreation Centers. It is also applicable as must be considered in the design of facilities
general guidance to projects involving the designated for inclusion in MCA programs:
modernization of existing facilities. AR 415-20 - Project Development and Design
While this is the basic criteria document for Approval
Army Recreation Centers, it is not intended to ER 1110-345-100 - Design Policy for Military
provide all of the information required for Construction
successful preparation of project designs. ER 1110-345-700 - Design Analysis
Additional information must be obtained from ER 1110-345-710 - Drawings
the unique requirements at the installation level ER 1110-345-720 - Specifications
which are associated with the general descrip- e. COMPLETION RECORDS. The following
tion of activities contained herein and the regulation is important in understanding the
locational constraints and opportunities of the kind of records transferred to the using service
site. upon completion of a project:
b. CASE STUDIES. Space allowances for Army AR 415-10 - General Provisions for Military
Recreation Centers are defined in DOD Construction
4270.1 -M, Construction Criteria Manual. For
the purpose of this document, case studies are
1-4 FORMAT
developed herein for three sizes of Recreation
Centers (12,700 SF, 19,800 SF, and 27,800 The format of this guide is intended to
SF). facilitate the development of project require-

1-1
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Introduction - January 1976

ments and designs by allowing the user of the b. DESIGN SERVICES. Architects for these
guide to apply these criteria to each unique, facilities shall be selected on the basis of:
local situation. • A continuing experience in designing recrea-
Major principles and criteria are contained in tional facilities with similar functions and
five chapters: planning considerations; design requirements.
considerations; individual space criteria; spatial • A demonstrated imaginative approach to
organization principles; and illustrative designs building design that integrates design qual-
of case studies. ity, functional efficiency, and cost control.
a. PLANNING AND DESIGN CONSIDERA- • Experience with modern, flexible construc-
TIONS. These chapters will familiarize design tion systems.
personnel with Recreation Centers and design
• Efficient and well-managed project proce-
objectives; they will guide programming person-
nel in delineating functional requirements; they dures and coordination with consultants,
will acquaint the evaluation personnel and • The ability to provide professional interior
facility managers with the activities that take design services.
place in the Centers. c. USER INFORMATION. Provisions related
b. INDIVIDUAL SPACE CRITERIA AND to the efficient operation and maintenance of
SPATIAL ORGANIZATION. These two chap- the facility shall also be emphasized during
ters will be the principal reference for design design. Information to supplement project
personnel, presenting them with detailed design completion records should be prepared to
considerations; the programming personnel will instruct the using service on how to gain the
find detailed information to tailor a building most benefit from such provisions.
program to an installation's local, individual
needs; evaluation personnel will find the 1-6 RESPONSIBILITIES
standards by which a project design can be
a. USING SERVICE. The using service for
evaluated.
military construction projects is defined in AR
c. CASE STUDIES. This chapter will help the 415-10, and its responsibilities are outlined in
design personnel establish design concept plans; AR 415-20. The using service is responsible for:
to the programming personnel it will demon-
(1) Development of functional requirements
strate possible design alternatives; it will help
in conjunction with the guidelines in this guide.
acquaint the evaluation personnel with Recrea-
tion Centers; it will demonstrate to facility (2) Justification of functional requirements
managers how they might rearrange their own falling beyond the scope of the guidelines in
Centers more effectively. The case studies are this guide.
not intended to be definitive designs since local
(3) Preparation and submission of the
variables will usually be too great to make this
Project Development Brochure required by AR
practicable. They do, however, represent
415-20.
possible applications of the criteria contained
herein in the form of example programs and (4) Obtaining installation action to gain site
designs for different facility sizes involving approval if the project is not sited in
hypothetical local situations. accordance with the DA-approved master plan.
(5) Preparation and submission of DD Form
1-5 EMPHASIS 1391 and supporting data in accordance with
a. DESIGN QUALITY. Emphasis shall be AR 415-15.
placed on the quality of architectural design
(6) Approval of concept designs to certify
since it vitally affects the longevity, economics,
compliance with functional requirements.
usefulness, efficiency, and attractiveness of a
Recreation Center and its interior and exterior b. DESIGN AGENCY. The Corps of Engineers
spaces. field office responsible for design will:

1-2
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Introduction - January 1976

(1) Insure that the functional requirements

of the using service are incorporated into the
project design.
(2) Insure that the requirements of the
using service fall within the scope of the
guidelines in this guide.
(3) Insure that all deviations from this guide
requested by the using service are adequately
explained in project design analysis.
(4) Insure that the quality standards for
overall design are emphasized as stated herein.
(5) Insure that the assemblage of user
information is complete at the completion of
the project, and provided, together with
completion records required by AR 415-20, to
the using service.

1-3
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Planning Considerations - January 1976

CHAPTER 2
PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS
2-1 ARMY RECREATION PROGRAM Design Implication: The design must create a
non-military atmosphere. The plan should allow
a. GENERAL. The mission of the Army
maximum freedom for the user to behave with
Recreation Services is to increase the effec-
minimum restrictions.
tiveness of the Army by maintaining morale
and physical and mental fitness by promoting (4) Maximum Participation. Local pro-
maximum participation in planned and diver- grams must provide and emphasize instruction
sified activities. The Army Recreation Center in activities to stimulate maximum participa-
program is one of seven core programs; the tion.
others are Arts and Crafts; Dependent Youth Design Implication: A successful design should
Activities; Library; Music and Theater; Outdoor reflect attitudes, interests and needs of the local
Recreation; and Sports and Athletic Training. military community. The responsibility for
The Recreation Center program is intended to determining these needs rests locally, with the
encourage the individual to try new activities Recreation Center's staff and patrons.
that would stimulate creative thinking, mo-
tivate involvement in social functions, and (5) Expanded Leisure Opportunities. Par-
enhance social skills in a relaxed and pleasant ticipants must be introduced to new or
atmosphere by providing a wide range of unfamiliar activities as a means of broadening
recreation information and social services. interests, skills, and knowledge in constructive
pursuits.
b. OBJECTIVES. The policy governing Army
Recreation Services (AR 28-1 ) requires that the Design Implication: The interior of the facilities
program adhere to several objectives; these should be open to encourage casual observation
standards have direct bearing on the planning of activities in progress so that interest is
and design of all Recreation Services facilities. sparked and participation is encouraged.

(1) Diversity. Programs must be varied to c. PROGRAM COMPONENTS. The Program

provide a freedom of choice and meet a wide of Army Recreation Centers is divided into four
range of ages, abilities, and preferences. major components: Regular, Leisure Services
and Resources, Special Interest, and Mobile
Design Implication: The Army Recreation
Recreation Units. In addition to standard
Center should be designed to allow maximum
programming, there could be non-recreational
freedom of movement and to support the many
events such as military organization observ-
activities that occur simultaneously; there
ances, conferences, bloodmobiles, commander's
should be a diversity of spatial arrangements in
calls, etc. Main Recreation Centers house all
which the activities can occur.
four components, while Branch Centers house
(2) Relevance. Programs must be contem- only Regular and Special Interest components.
porary, relevant, innovative, and tailored to
(1) Regular Component. This component
incorporate new trends and interests.
consists of standard recreational activities such
Design implication: The design must be as dances, discussions, tournaments, films,
adaptable to changing social values without shows, festivals; and self-generated activities
extensive remodeling. The physical appearance such as games, cards, record and tape listening,
must be contemporary and appealing. and TV viewing.

(3) Change of Pace. Programs must provide (2) Leisure Services and Resources Compo-
a change of pace from duty environment. nent. There are two parts to this component

2-1
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Planning Considerations - January 1976

which occur at Main Centers only: d. PROGRAM DIMENSIONS. One objective of

(a) information/Tour/Travel (ITT) is the Recreation Center Program is to create
the centralized information office for on- and opportunities for expanded individual and
off-post leisure activities and recreational community social awareness and growth. This
Program must respond to the military commu-
resources such as group tours, travel planning,
nity's recreational needs by planning, execut-
and distribution of tickets for recreational
ing, and evaluating activities that involve the
activities.
patrons in the following dimensions:
(b) Consultant Services provide com-
(1) Social, by encouraging interpersonal
prehensive social and supplemental consultant
relations and interaction;
services and maintain liaison with appropriate
military and civilian agencies for unit parties, (2) Cultural, by developing an awareness
military celebrations and anniversary obser- and appreciation of different heritages and
vances, leisure counseling and referral, etc. civilizations;
(3) Special Interest Component. This com- (3) Educational, by providing instruction in
ponent provides special recreational activities new skills and abilities and developing known
that are of specific interest to the military skills;
community and special populations such as (4) Amusive, by providing enjoyment and
dependent wives' activities, discussion groups, relaxation; and
classes, special events, and special interest clubs.
(5) Service, by providing service to individ-
These activities may continue over a long
uals, the community, special populations, etc.
period of time and appeal to soldiers, their
families, and other community members. The matrices in Tables 2-1 and 2 demonstrate
how a chess tournament and a theme program,
(4) Mobile Component. This component is
"2001 . . . Days of Future Passed," can involve
a delivery system which takes Army Recreation
the Center's patrons in each of the components
Center Programs to personnel in remote areas
and along each of these dimensions.
such as units on field maneuvers, isolated work
or housing areas without recreational facilities, Another objective of the Recreation Center
and off-post sites. Recmobiles and vehicles Program is to respond immediately to the
which house the mobile program are admin- community's needs by initiating activities as
istratively and logistically supported only from soon as an interest is expressed; as soon as the
Main Recreation Centers. interest diminishes, that specific activity is
dropped. To meet this need, the Program is
While certain activities are standard features of characterized by a great deal of spontaneity
one of the previously mentioned components
within the framework of the components and
(for instance, a dance is a Regular component
dimensions.
and chess club would be a Special Interest
In order to support the large degree of
component), the Recreation Center Program is
flexibility required in the social programming
flexible in that one component may become
of the Center's activities, the design should
involved with another (for example, the chess
incorporate a wide range of spatial configura-
club may sponsor a chess night and social which
tions in which a variety of activities can occur.
would be part of the Regular component). The
These spaces should be planned and designed
design implication of this is the requirement
according to the needs of the Program
that the Center be planned to house a group of
components in relation to the full range of
interrelated components which have a wide
Program dimensions rather than establishing
range of activities rather than a group of
separate spaces for each component related to a
independent and separate components. To
single dimension.
more fully understand these interrelationships,
each of the components can be described along To be successful, the design of these spaces
five dimensions which describe the purpose of must specifically support the range of activities
the activities, that will take place within it; incompatible

2-2
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Planning Considerations - January 1976

Table 2-1. Activity Matrix for Game Example.

Specific Activity:
CHESS TOURNAMENT DIMENSIONS

SOCIAL CULTURAL EDUCATIONAL AMUSIVE SERVICE

REGULAR tournament display hand- speaker: benefits of exhibition for

awards ceremony made chess nat'l/intemat'l on-looking
sets competition patrons

vt SPECIAL chess club Russian classes to improve playing chess teaching hospital
INTEREST meetings influence on skills patients how to
2
UJ game strategy play
o ITT tour arrange- tour museums/ tour & lecture on tour state deaf &
2 O ments for local exhibits of chess strategy blind schl/teach
O > children how to
u tournaments chess sets
UJ play

irt CONSULT- catering arrange- arrange for club provide round arrange intra-unit
Lil ANT ments for awards members to teach robin exhibi- chess tournament
SERVICES banquet wives how to tions to NCO
play clubs

MOBILE conduct mini game & tour- teach basic skills

chess tourna- nament to inner-city
ments participation residents

Table 2-2. Activity Matrix for Theme Program Example.

Specific Activity
2001... DAYS 0 F FUTURE PASSED
Dl MENSIONS
SOCIAL CULTURAL EDUCATIONAL AMUSIVE SERVICE

REGULAR dance Wl program area film and discussion electronic invite partic-
futuristic decor reflecting group: "Future games of ipation by USO
theme advancing tech- Shock" future and local colleges
V)
t- nology
LU multi-media
z SPECIAL science fiction sewing club space travel exhibits
o
Q.
INTEREST club exploring future presentations to
5 fashion trends local colleges
o
u tour participa- arrange transporta-
2 ITT tour planetar- disseminate informa-
CO tion tion for guests
ium & museum tion to community
§ CONSULT- arrange refresh- arrange space- arrange refreshments
<2 ANT ments during age exhibitions for mobile units'
ä SERVICES program programs

MOBILE mini-fashion film/discussion use mobile unit to

show by sewing group: "Future advertise programs
club Shock" community-wide

2-3
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Planning Considerations - January 1976

activities should be housed in separate spaces. viewing, billiards, and pingpong. All these
activities may occur daily with varying group
e. ACTIVITIES. The activities that take place sizes. Small group activities of a non-recrea-
within Recreation Centers can be classified as tional nature may include meetings, small
belonging to one of five major categories: classes, discussion groups, etc. and usually
administrative, large group, small group, re- occur during the duty day.
freshment, and transition. These activity
(4) Refreshment Activities. These activities
classifications can be described in terms of
function, number of participants, and fre- occur in all Centers but their nature varies
quency and duration of occurrence. Since according to size and location of the facility.
changes in the using population will affect a These activities are normally under the control
Center's recreation programs, each Center of Army and Air Force Exchange Services
should be flexibly planned so that different (AAFES). In smaller Centers, these Exchange
activities consist only of vending services; in
activities may be included if the local programs
larger Centers, food is prepared and served as
change.
well as consumed. Other refreshment activities
(1) Administrative Activities. These activ- provided by Recreation Center staff occur
ities consist primarily of control (the distribu- during dances, festivals, and unit parties. Also,
tion of equipment, dissemination of informa- refreshments may be served during meetings
tion, and security); administration (paper work, and special interest programs.
consultation, and planning); ITT, (consultation,
(5) Transition Activities. These involve
travel arrangements, paper work, and distribu-
entering, circulating through, and leaving the
tion of tickets); and in large Recreation
Centers, special interest (planning, consultation, Center. Although these activities are individ-
ually generated and occur spontaneously, they
and paper work). Administrative activities
occur daily during the total period of operation are extremely important in planning and
designing the Center to achieve its maximum
and involve 2-5 people, usually only the staff,
either full-time, part-time, or volunteers. effectiveness. To increase patrons' participation
in and awareness of the Center's many
(2) Large Group Activities. These recrea- activities, the patron should be able to observe,
tional activities may include informal presenta- interact with participants, and become inter-
tions, dances, films, important TV events, ested and involved in these activities while
bingo, exhibitions, etc. 'These are planned moving through the Center. The transitional
events with organized control with a group size activities serve to integrate the other activities
varying from 200 to 500 people. There may be with circulation into a unified program.
as few as one event per week or as many as one
or two per night. Large group activities of a f. HOURS OF OPERATION. Hours of opera-
non-recreational nature may include blood- tion are normally when the majority of troops
mobiles, briefings, seminars, commander's calls, are off-duty, such as week nights, weekends,
and the like. These activities usually occur and holidays. This, however, will vary according
during the duty day. to the unit's mission. The Centers may be open
at other times for participation by non-military
(3) Small Group Activities. These may be users and at posts where there is considerable
spontaneously generated activities such as TV night duty, if scheduling of the staff and
viewing, record and tape listening, games, resources permit.
reading, writing, and conversing, as well as
activities planned and executed by staff g. USERS. The Recreation Center serves both
members, such as discussion groups, classes, etc. enlisted personnel and other members of the
Group sizes can vary considerably from 1 to 4 military community including their families,
for reading and record listening; up to 30 for DA civilian employees and retired military
card and game playing, hobbies, combo personnel. However, priority consideration is to
practice, meetings and small group programs; be given to enlisted personnel and their bona
and up to 50 for special interest programs, TV fide guests.

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Planning Considerations - January 1976

h. STAFF. Typical requirements for civilian Table 2-4. Authorized Space Criteria Related to
staff may vary from Center to Center. The Enlisted Strength.
Center's staff is usually minimal in terms of the
size of the Center and the number of Total Enlisted Strength Gross Square Footage
participants. It is therefore necessary to locate 501-2000 12,700 SF
the administrative area centrally to provide the 2001-4000 19,800 SF
necessary control of the Center and to have 4001-5000 27,800 SF
maximum contact with the users. Additional 5001+ Provide additional
staff, either volunteers, part-time employees, or Branch Centers
military personnel may be used to direct
various programs.

These allowances represent gross areas (net plus

25%) which include space for functional
Table 2-3. Civilian Staff Requirements. requirements, structure, circulation and build-
ing service facilities. They do nor include
Personnel 12,700 19,800 27,800 mechanical equipment space for heating and air
SF SF SF conditioning.
Center Center Center
(2) Local Conditions. Factors such as
Center Director X X X tenure of the installation, military population
Program Director X X X to be served, accessibility and capabilities of
ITT Director X X nearby communities to provide recreation,
Special Interest climatic conditions that affect recreational
Director X X activities, and the impact on the morale of the
NCOIC X X troops must all be considered.
The using population and nearby recreation
resources in surrounding civilian communities
must also be analyzed; these are "local"
conditions which affect planning.
2-2 PLANNING THE ARMY RECREATION
CENTER (a) Significant differences in recreational
planning are generated by the range of unit
a. GENERAL. Before a Recreation Center can
missions. An example of this is the distinction
be planned, the Center's personnel and patrons
between trainees and permanent party person-
must analyze their needs. From this analysis a
nel. The two groups demonstrate wide differ-
suitable environment can be determined which
ences in age, maturity and commitment which
is supportive of both the Center's programs and
affect their use of the Recreation Center. The
the users' activities. This planning analysis must
trainee, away from home for the first time, has
be accomplished at a local level. The aspects of
a tendency to be undisciplined in leisure, has
the analysis which are pertinent to the space
few responsibilities beyond the requirements of
planning and design of the Recreation Center
basic training, and is comparatively restricted to
should be recorded in the Functional Descrip-
the installation. In addition, training schedules
tion of Project Development Brochure, Part 1
often tend to restrict the use of Recreation
(TM 5-800-3) as detailed in 2-2c.
Centers to weekends. Permanent party people,
b. PLANNING FACTORS. on the other hand, have their own transporta-
(1) Typical Gross Areas. This guide pre- tion and more free time, and therefore tend to
sents typical spatial requirements to meet leave the base on weekends (especially if it is
Department of Defense space allowances as located near an urban center or tourist
outlined in DOD 4270.1-M, Construction facilities), using the Recreation Center prima-
Criteria Manual. rily during the week.

2-5
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Planning Considerations - January 1976

(b) The Recreation Center serves all responsive to innovation and supportive of the
members of the military community; various on-going activities rather than feature statically
population groups will have different leisure predetermined spaces and featureless non-
needs. Depending on the population profile of determined multipurpose space.
the installation, the Center may be totally c. DETERMINING FUNCTIONAL
oriented toward the single person or strongly REQUIREMENTS
family oriented to include programs for
(1) General. In accordance with AR 415-20,
dependent and retired personnel; all must
the local using service is responsible for
accommodate a diversity of activities that
completing the Project Development Brochure
appeal to various groups of people.
Part 1 (PDB-I). In order that the local needs are
(c) The presence or lack of recreational communicated to the designers, the planners
activities in nearby civilian communities affects should develop an outline for inclusion in PDB
the planning of Army Recreation Centers. In which addresses the five factors listed below;
the former instance, it may either draw people the purpose of this is to modify or supplement
away from the Center or increase participation the design guidance herein rather than duplicat-
in special interest activities, such as skiing; in ing it.
the latter instance it will increase the soldier's
dependence on the Center to provide leisure (a) General orientation of the local
programs. program which is a description of what is to be
accomplished by the local recreation program.
(d) The geographic location of an instal- This orientation should be in the form of
lation will affect the nature of the programs problem statements or issues which are believed
offered, especially if it is located near a large to have significant impact on the design of the
urban area; this tends to orient a Center toward facility.
week night activities.
(b) Description of recreation programs
(3) Local Programs. Another factor that and services that are offered at the Center and
should be considered in planning the Recrea- potential future programs.
tion Center is the type and variety of programs
(c) Description of activities that will
that occur there, as well as the number of
take place in the Center including how many
participants in these activities. If a Center holds
people are involved (minimum number, average
a few large group activities, it may be advisable
number, maximum number); how often the
to plan the Center with a group of multi-
activities occur; how long they last; what
purpose spaces that can be opened into a larger
equipment and furniture are required; where
space when required. The popularity of a
the activities normally occur; what special
particular activity may require that its space be
features are required to support the activities.
enlarged. Therefore, the planning should evolve
All of this description should be related to
around the recreation program of that partic-
specific issues defined in the general orienta-
ular installation. However, this does not mean
tion.
that new programs should not be considered or
that the recreation program will remain the (d) Description of the relationships
same and not change. between activities, such as which activities can
happen in the same space; which activities
(4) Flexibility. Each facility should be
interfere with others and should be separated;
planned to allow considerable flexibility in
what the requirements for visual control are.
meeting the changing leisure needs of the
soldiers. Needs change as tastes and preferences (e) Establishment of priorities should
change (e.g., dancing style); as new programs be developed at this point, since it is likely that
are made available (ITT); and as technological the proposed recreation program cannot be
advances are made (e.g., electronic games, rear achieved within the economic and construction
projection TV). Although not all changes can parameters of the project; the using agency
be predicted, a successful facility should be should develop priorities for each activity that

2-6
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Planning Considerations - January 1976

is to be housed, based on the necessity of functional differences between Main Recreation

inclusion. Centers and Branch Centers, site selection
criteria differ accordingly. However, the pri-
(2) Individual Space Criteria Review. After
mary requirement for each Center is the
the activities have been systematically de-
proximity to the users.
scribed, the individual space criteria (Chapter 4)
should be consulted to determine the project's (2) Main Recreation Centers. Because the
size and design considerations. If local program Main Recreation Centers serve the married
needs are not met by these standards, they can personnel and their dependents, DA employees,
be modified to tailor the program to meet local and retired personnel, as well as single enlisted
needs, personnel, the primary consideration for siting
Main Recreation Centers is proximity to other
(a) If changes in sizes of spaces are
leisure activities which can attract participants,
required, new sizes can be determined from the
lend specialized support, and help develop a
unit space allocations that are noted under each
complex of facilities for the military commu-
area.
nity. These leisure facilities, including the post
(b) Changes in equipment can be noted exchange, motion picture theater, GED
as to the new equipment required. Center, and other recreational facilities, should
(c) Changes in design considerations can be grouped together in an area equally
be developed by a diagrammatic or verbal accessible to everyone on the installation and
description. be on a main thoroughfare.

(3) Spatial Organization Review. Spatial

organization requirements are described in
Chapter 5. The using agency should review the
Community Lniaurf FKiitjM
matrix in this'chapter to determine adjacency TIM R«cnation Cantar in

or spatial affinity requirements. If local

conditions differ, these should be noted. Next
the using agency should review the diagrams in
Chapter 5 and the schematic spatial arrange- AdimnittratiM Canlar

ment diagrams in Chapter 6 to determine which

pattern meets their needs most closely. From
this, a spatial arrangement diagram can be
developed or identified specifically in response
to local conditions.
(4) Project Development Brochure. To fill
out the functional requirements part of PDB-1, Houttnofor
NoncemmittloiMd Offican
the using agency should use the items
OutaMa Gama/Activily Araaa
delineated under paragraph 2-2c(1) as the
"Functional Description of the Facility."
Technical information required to complete the
"Functional Criteria" part can be found in the
Diagrammatic land use plan showing housing for
appropriate chapters of this guide. The spatial
officers, N. C. O.'s, and enlisted personnel in relation
arrangement diagram would suffice as the
to supporting facilities and the installation core
required floor plan to demonstrate functional
consisting of the Administrative Center, the Medical
flow. Assistance, if required, may be obtained
Center, and Community Leisure Facilities, which
through the District Engineers Offices.
include the Main Post Recreation Center.
2-3 SELECTING THE SITE
a. LOCATION.
(1) General. Since there are significant Figure 2-1 Diagrammatic Installation Land Use

2-7
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Planning Considerations - January 1976

(3) Branch Recreation Centers. Branch c. SIZE AND SHAPE OF SITE. The shape of
Centers are specifically oriented toward single the site should be compact to assure an
enlisted personnel. Therefore, these Centers efficient, economic and attractive building
should be integrated with troop housing. layout and should be in one piece, undivided by
Depending on the physical layout of the through-traffic lanes. The topography of the
installation, it may be more desirable to have site should provide good natural drainage and
two small Branch Centers rather than one large require minimum cost to develop.
Main Center. Since Recreation Services activ- Table 2-6. Site Acreage Requirements.
ities are not incorporated in the brigade
bachelor housing complexes and it is reasonable 12,700 SF 19,800 SF 27,800 SF
to expect to be able to walk to these facilities, ... . „m Centers Centers Centers
they should be grouped together with other Minimum
leisure and unit activities, enabling a person to Size of Site: 2.0 acres 2.75 acres 3.25 acres
do several things on a single trip. Grouping
d. MASTER PLANNING. Site selection shall be
these activities together also allows them to be
in accordance with the approved installation
mutually supportive. The relationship between
Master Plan. The arrangement of facilities on
the Recreation Center and enlisted personnel is
the site should be integrated with other
best when one Branch Recreation Center, sited
buildings and site conditions. Existing traffic
with other Recreation Services activities, serves
patterns and capacities should be investigated
a two brigade area. This allows people their
so that the new facility can be located without
choice of relaxing with people from their own
causing undue congestion.
unit or from another.
e. SITE IMPROVEMENTS. After the site has
(4) Circulation Systems. The sites for both
been selected, an analysis of improvements
Main and Branch Centers should be visually
required to make the site usable for a
prominent from the vehicular and pedestrian
Recreation Center must be made so that cost
movement system.
estimates may be developed. To assist the using
b. UTILITY REQUIREMENTS. To be ade- agency in developing requirements and cost
quate, the site must have utility capacity estimates, the local Facilities Engineer Office
equivalent to those listed in Table 2-5. There should be contacted to provide professional
will be variations in requirements because of assistance. The analysis must include all site
climatic factors and the final design of the work and encompass the following:
building. • Extension of all utilities, electric, water, gas,
Table 2-5. Required Site Utility Examples. sewers, to the building.
• Construction of sidewalks, curbs, and gutters.
12,700 19,800 27,800
SF SF SF • Landscape improvements including clearing,
Utilities Center Center Center grading, and planting.
Electric (kw)* 163 259 380 • Construction of outdoor terraces, parking
Water (gal/day) 2,500 3,960 5,560 areas, walks, and paving.
Sewage (gal/day) 1,875 3,000 4,125 The analysis should be documented in the
Heating (central) Project Development Brochure and the costs
plant MBTU 700 1,070 1,500 should be the basis for costs shown on the
(0°F DB outside Military Construction Project Data Form (DD
temp, (design condition) Form 1391 ). To insure that adequate funds are
"If there is no air appropriated, this analysis must consider all
conditioning, deduct aspects of site improvements, especially land-
(kw) 75 120 160 scaping and construction, so that an attractive
95° F DB and 78° F and usable Center is designed.
WB outside temp. (design condition)

2-8
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Design Considerations - January 1976

CHAPTER 3
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
3-1 DESIGN OBJECTIVES in accordance with the approved General Site
Plan and applicable portions of DOD Manual
All design aspects should be studied with
4270.1-M, TM 5-822-2 and 3, TM 5-830-1 and
respect to economics, functional requirements,
the completed Project Development Brochure
and local conditions, but particular emphasis
for the individual project. Site analysis will
should be placed on architectural design,
provide the bases for decisions about building
especially the interior and exterior attractive-
orientation, building configuration, and land-
ness of the facility. Measures taken to meet
design objectives should be documented in the scape design.
Design Analysis prepared in accordance with a. SITE ANALYSIS. A thorough examination
ER 1110-345-700. of site conditions is required for concept and
a. DESIGN QUALITY. Excellence of architec- final design development and should include
ture is the primary design objective, for the the following types of information:
Recreation Center's atmosphere will determine
(1) Climate data: temperature, precipita-
its usefulness as a place for relaxation. The tion, prevailing winds, humidity, solar orienta-
design should be informal, open, contemporary,
tion and micro-climatic factors of the site
and comfortable; it should promote sponta- which modify climate patterns such as the
neous social interaction, permit a number of effect of topography and structure on wind
activities to take place simultaneously, and
patterns.
express the nature of the activities taking place.
(2) Topographic information: contours,
b. FUNCTION. The second design objective is
water table, drainage channels, natural features.
to provide a functional facility that meets the
requirements of the installation's Recreation
(3) Soil data: underlying and visible geolog-
Center program. The design should be flexible ical features, soil analyses.
to accommodate changes in recreation pro-
grams, activities, and the community's attitudes (4) Ecological description: type, location,
about recreation needs. and condition of trees and vegetation, cover,
c. ECONOMY. The third objective is to local ecological factors such as pollution
provide an effective facility at the most sources,
economical cost and least adverse environmen- (5) Man-made features of surrounding area:
tal impact, To do so, the design must be location, size and scale of buildings, utility
determined by studies that use cost, values, and lines, road patterns, pedestrian paths.
functional and social benefits to analyze
engineering, economic and environmental deci- (6) Visual and aesthetic factors: views,
sions. These studies should also investigate the outstanding natural features, sounds, and
use of local skills, stock products, and new movement.
materials and techniques to reduce costs.
Life-cycle cost analyses should appraise initial b. BUILDING ORIENTATION. Based on the
costs, operating and maintenance expenses, and site analysis and master plan, the building must
replacement costs over the life span of the be oriented on the site to conserve energy,
Recreation Center. protect the environment, capitalize on natural
beauty, function with street patterns, move-
3-2 DESIGNING THE SITE ment systems, surrounding buildings, and be
Site planning and design must be accomplished aesthetically pleasing.

3-1
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Design Considerations - January 1976

ARTS »CRAFTS CENTER

<100ÖO 1> PidMtrltn M

/""" 7 Vthkular Traffic
ENLISTED HOUSING

<ooooi>

0 100

Figure 3-1 Site Analysis

(1) Energy Conservation. The primary natural character of the site, and take into
consideration for building orientation on the consideration the natural drainage system.
site must be the conservation of energy and (b) Trees, outcropping of rocks,
increased comfort of both outdoor and indoor ground forms, and water should be incor-
recreation areas. The effects of orientation on porated into the site design. This preserves the
energy conservation are more fully explained in natural beauty of the site and installation as
paragraph 3-5a. well as enhances the design quality of the
Center.
(2) Surrounding Site Elements. The next
(c) On-site vehicular and pedestrian
consideration is to capitalize on attractive
surroundings and views by orienting the movement must be considered as part of the
building toward them. Also, its physical total circulation system of the installation. The
relationships to other facilities and movement objectives of pedestrian movement are safety
systems should enhance its effectiveness by (by reducing pedestrian-vehicular conflicts),
drawing people toward it, making it part of a convenience of walking to the Center, continuity
unified community center. with other paths, comfort and ease of walking,
and attractiveness. The objectives of vehicular
(a) Topography can determine suitabil- movement are safety of ingress and egress from
ity for building locations, parking areas, the site, the prevention of congestion on
outdoor facilities, and paths. The design should installation roads, and ease of parking, service,
require a minimum of grading, preserve the and fire protection.

3-2
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Design Considerations - January 1976

c^
3
I I

\ /

SCALE IXTL—l

Figure 3-2 Site Design

c. LANDSCAPE DESIGN, (3) Grading. Over lot grading will be

established to provide positive drainage at a
(1) Functions! Areas. The site should be
minimum 2% grade. Normally a 5% grade for
developed to provide outdoor relaxation and
10 feet will be provided away from the
have appropriate landscape planting that
building. Road alignment and overall grading
defines and enhances areas and activities. A
will be designed for optimum preservation of
stepped terrace (like a small amphitheater),
existing ground forms, drainage patterns and
seating areas for various size groups, an area for
tree cover to avoid excessive earth movement
tables and barbecue, and a covered terrace
consistent with functional requirements.
should be provided. An outdoor game area
should be developed a safe distance from the (4) Site Plan Requirements. Site plans must
building for croquet, shuffleboard, pick-up show, as a minimum, floor elevations, existing
volley ball and horseshoes. and finished grades, existing and proposed
(2) Planting. Planting design will consider buildings, roads, parking and utilities in the
selection of plant materials which will be immediate project vicinity, outside utility
readily obtainable, easily maintained and connections, existing vegetation, proposed
compatible with the surrounding environment. lawns and planting masses, and solar orienta-
Sizes of plants should be adequate to give some tion.
immediate effect. Landscape planting plans will (5) Utility and Service Features. Placement
be prepared. These plans will be executed as of exterior utility and service features that
part of the base bid. might detract from the over-ail appearance of

3-3
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Design Considerations - January 1976

the facility should be held to an absolute perception of the many activities taking place
minimum. Where conditions dictate placement simultaneously, the space normally used for
of the service items in exposed locations, circulation should be treated as transitional
effective screening should be employed. space, from which activities can be observed
while moving through the Center. This
3-3 DESIGNING THE BUILDING transitional space should be designed with
a. ARCHITECTURAL CHARACTER. The small, open lounges which would enable
Center's image of informality can be conveyed informal groups to form while waiting for
by a variety of unstructured open spaces in events to start or rooms to be free.
which spontaneous activities can occur and (2) Acoustical Zones. Because many recrea-
through which organized group activities can be tional activities are acoustically incompatible,
viewed. Long narrow corridors, static and fixed they must not be located adjacent to each
spaces, and institutional color schemes should other. The establishment of a hierarchy of
be avoided in both the architectural and noise-generating activities will lead to the
interior design schemes. The Center's physical development of physical separation require-
design should have a dynamic, contemporary ments. The activities that generate a low level
aesthetic to complement the Center's primary of sound (card playing, conversing, TV viewing)
user, the young, single enlisted man. should be housed in totally or partially open
b. FUNCTION. Functionally, the design must spaces. Meetings, hobbies, refreshment, and
increase the users' awareness of the activities large group events all produce a moderate level
taking place in order to involve them in new of sound and require a moderate deqree of
leisure pursuits; develop flexible space arrange- separation from other activities; they should
ments to support a variety of activities and have enclosed spaces with no special acoustical
group sizes; promote social interaction among treatment. Music practice, pingpong, electric
the users; and establish a coherent plan which games, and billiards all generate a considerable
enables the user to circulate freely throughout amount of sound. These should be separated
the building. from quiet areas and placed in enclosed space
with acoustical treatment.
(1) Transition. To increase the users'

Transitional Space
Lounge Corridor

Figure 3-3 Transitional Space

High Separation Low Separation Moderate Separation

enclosed by acoustical treatment open enclosed

Figure 3-4 Acoustical Zones

3-4
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Design Considerations - January 1976

Transitional Lounge Fireplace Lounge Small Group Area Stepped Area

Figure 3-5 Adaptability of Large Group Activity Area

(3) Adaptability. The third functional buildings, while remaining unique and contem-
consideration is that the facility be adaptable. porary. The design should reflect the physical/
For example, the large group area may not cultural traditions of the installation's geo-
house large group activities on a daily basis; it graphic location. Consideration of building
must be adaptable for small group activity use. form, configuration, roof slopes, and construc-
The space should be divided into a series of tion materials will not only aid in developing
interrelated smaller spaces through the use of the Center's aesthetic character; it will also aid
level changes, half-height partitions, dropped in conserving energy, since many building
ceiling panels, focused lighting, and lounge traditions are based on controlling the climate
alcoves. The stepped-down design also develops without mechanical means.
better sight lines to the platform during large d. TECHNOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS.
group presentations.
(1) Design Coordination. The Recreation
(4) Space tfee. Because there are a number Center's prime technological concern is the
of activities which involve the same group size construction of an economical, well-built, and
but require different design considerations, attractive building. There must be, however,
overlapping space usage should be based not coordination between the building's technology
only on similar group size but also on similar and the design which supports its functions. A
activity requirements. number of design factors will influence the
c. LOCALE FACTORS. Two major locational engineering system design. The structural design
concerns affect the building design — the must unify both long span and short span
immediate site surroundings and the regional systems, occurring over large group and small
location of the installation. The Recreation group spaces respectively. If exposed structural
Center design should complement the scale, members are part of the design, they must be
materials, and configurations of its neighboring coordinated into the design to provide a

i^^N/\y\x\/\/\y\/\yl

Figure 3-6 Coordination of Exposed Structural Members

3-5
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Design Considerations - January 1976

(c) Water supply facilities as prescribed

in TM 5-813-5 and TM 5-813-6 will be
provided. The specifications shall be in
accordance with CE 500 and CE 501.
(d) Sanitary sewers shall be as pre-
scribed in TM 5-814-1 and the specifications
will be based on CE 500 and CE 600.01.
(4) Mechanical System.
Figure 3-7 integration of Mechanical and Electrical (a) Heating, ventilating, and air condi-
Systems with Architectural Design tioning (HVAC) will conform to the applicable
portions of DOD 4270.1-M and TM 5-810-1.
pleasing appearance. Although the open plan-
Heating and air conditioning load calculations
ning of the facility permits flexibility in the
will be in accordance with the procedures of
mechanical system, it must be developed with
the latest ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamen-
the lighting and structural system into a unified
tals. The "U" values for exterior walls, ceilings
feature of the design composition. Considera-
and floors will be in accordance with DOD
tion should be given to the use of standardized
4270.1-M.
construction and mechanical systems such as
pre-engineered structural components and pre- (b) In the design of the HVAC system,
fabricated plumbing systems to economize on variable air volume, multi-zone, dual duct,
construction costs. All technological decisions terminal reheat, a combination of the systems
should be influenced by cost-effectiveness, and any other suitable systems in the current
availability of materials and equipment, labor ASH RAE Handbooks will be considered.
conditions, and suitability for the climate. Within the design scope and environmental
conditions required for various spaces, a life
(2) Structural Systems. cycle cost study and an energy analysis will be
(a) Design Loads. Structural design made and the least energy intensive system will
loads and criteria will be in accordance with be selected. Results of the studies and reasons
Chapter 6 of DOD 4270.1-M and TM 5-809-1 for rejection or selection of systems considered
to 6 and TM 5-809-8, 9 and 11 as applicable. will be included in the design analysis. Energy
Seismic design shall be in accordance with TM
5-809-10. The design analysis will be prepared
in accordance with ER 1110-345-700.
(b) Costs. The structural system and
features selected for construction drawings will 70 ..
be that system which is the most economical
and suitable based on comparative cost studies loo cod
for the building involved. Comparative cost
studies will be made for the three most
apparent competitive systems and will take into
account mechanical, electrical and other e
features where they vary between systems
under study.
!
(3) Plumbing System.
1
(a) Plumbing will be in accordance with
£ /—{—I—I—I I I—I—I—I—I-
TM 5-810-5 and DOD 4270.1-M. Specifications o 30 n
will be in accordance with the CE 300 series.
IMotlM HunMty %
(b) Gas fittings as required will be in
accordance with TM 5-810-6. Figure 3-8 Diagrammatic Bioclimate Chart

3-6
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Design Considerations - January 1976

recovery systems shall be investigated and will with the CE 303 series.
be incorporated if economical, based on life (e) To assure adequate primary capac-
cycle cost study. The HVAC system shall be ity, a survey will be made on the existing
provided with automatic controls so that the primary distribution system which will serve
system can be operated to conserve energy. this project.
(c) Energy conservation measures will (f) Primary electric service will be
be in accordance with paragraph 3-5, Designing underground from the nearest pole or manhole
for Energy Conservation. to a pad mounted transformer(s) located
outdoors as close to the load centers as
(d) Specifications will be in accordance
practicable. Secondary electric service from
with the CE 301 series.
transformers) will be underground. Service and
(e) Proposed mechanical systems will distribution equipment will be of the circuit
be coordinated with the design of the fire breaker or fusible switch type, and branch
safety system, and with the desired ceiling circuit panelboards will be of the circuit
heights and other features of the architectural breaker type.
design.
(g) System characteristics will be select-
(f) Air duct systems will be designed to ed to provide for the most efficient and
minimize sound transfer through ducts, and economical distribution of energy in accord-
floor installation of grills will not be permitted. ance with Chapter 7, DOD 4270.1-M.
(g) Placement of exterior mechanical (h) Relamping facilities and accessibility
elements should be avoided so as not to detract of electrical equipment shall be considered in
from the overall appearance of the building. all designs. Provisions for adjustment and/or
Where conditions dictate the placement of relamping of light fixtures which are not readily
mechanical equipment in exposed areas, effec- accessible shall be coordinated with the
tive screening should be employed. architectural design. Included in the design
analysis is a determination of whether suitable
(4) Electrical Systems.
maintenance facilities are available on-base and
(a) Light levels specified in Chapter 4 their identification. If suitable means are not
are based upon minimum IES standards and available, an appropriate and economical means
analysis of the activities within the space. will be selected in coordination with the using
(b) Electrical design will conform to service.
DOD 4270.1-M and TM 5-811-1 through 4. (i) Enclosed multipurpose spaces, spe-
(c) Electrical symbols will conform to cial interest rooms, central program area,
MIL STD 15-3. platform, pantry, and AAFES food service
areas all have special power requirements
(d) Specifications will be in accordance
necessary to support large music amplifiers,
popcorn machines, appliances, etc. These
requirements will be coordinated with the using
service to insure adequate power to support
unique Recreation Center program require-
ments.
(j) Electrical service will be provided to
outdoor terrace areas for use in a variety of
outside activities related to the Center. Special
requirements for outdoor power will be
Lighting levels for tasks should be brighter than back-
ground which in turn should be brighter than general coordinated with the using service. Exterior
surroundings and circulation space. weatherproof outlets will be supplied from
branch circuits having ground fault circuit
Figure 3-9 Variety of Light Levels protection.

3-7
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Design Considerations - January 1976

(k) Illuminated exit signs and emer- ing terminal cabinets will be provided in
gency lights will be provided for all emergency coordination with the local communication-
exits and passageways as required by the NFPA electronics officer.
Life Safety Code No. 101. (f) Main telephone terminal cabinets
(5) Communications Systems. will be in mechanical or electrical equipment
rooms. Building telephone service will be
(a) The project design analysis must
underground.
describe the communications systems require-
ments to include a statement reflecting (6) Fire Protection Systems.
coordination of such requirements with the
local communications-electronics officer. (a) Fire protection will be as prescribed
in DOD 4270.1-M, TM 5-812-1 and TM
(b) A central program distribution 5-813-6. Specifications for the fire alarm and
system will be provided and will be designed to
evacuation signal systems shall be in accordance
accommodate multichannel programming via
with applicable portions of CE 710.03. For
tape and record media. The system will be
critical areas requiring sprinklers, the system
complete with all required speakers, outlets,
specifications shall comply with CE 700.
amplifiers and wiring, except that record
turntables, tape machines, tapes and records (b) The project design analysis must
will be provided by the using agency. Specific describe the fire safety system including the fire
electrical requirements and equipment location and/or smoke detection system, fire alarm and
requirements for turntables and tape machines evacuation signal systems, and proposed fire
will be coordinated with the using agency resistance ratings for principal structural mem-
representative. bers. The analysis shall also reflect coordination
(c) An intercommunication system will of the fire safety system with the mechanical
be provided consisting of a master station in the systems proposed for the project, Floor plans
control center capable of selective paging will be furnished with the analysis to show lines
through individual loudspeakers in admin- of measurement indicating the maximum
istrative off ices, small group activity areas, distance from major activity areas to exit(s).
special interest rooms, outdoor terraces and
3-4 DESIGNING THE INTERIORS
central program area. The master station will
have volume controls, an input and output, and a. GENERAL. Interior design features shall be
an all-call feature. Speakers will be of the coordinated with the architectural design as an
flush-mounted type. overall scheme, whether they are furnished and
installed as part of the construction contract or
(d) A complete television antenna
provided later by the using service. Graphic
system will be provided. TV outlets will be
design and signage will be included as part of
located adjacent to convenience receptacles,
the overall interior design to identify activities
both flush-mounted in the walls approximately
and facilitate the Center's effectiveness.
six inches below the ceiling lines. Provisions will
Requirements shall be coordinated with the
be made in the design for either wall or ceiling
mounting of using-agency-furnished receivers, using service and the installation.
out of reach of patrons. TV outlets will be (1) Cost The cost of all items of equipment
provided in all TV rooms and small group and furnishings which are permanently built-in
activity areas as well as the platform and or attached to the structure, as defined in AR
fireplace lounge. 415-17, are normally considered part of the
(e) One telephone outlet will be provid- construction contract. Other items which are
ed in each administrative work area and two loose, portable, or can be detached from the
outlets will be provided at the ITT desk and at structure without tools, are generally provided
the control desk. Outlets will also be provided by the using agency under separate contract.
in areas reserved for public telephones. Outlets Interior building surfaces, paint colors, floor
and empty telephone raceway systems includ- coverings, window coverings as required,

3-8
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Design Considerations - January 1976

graphics and signage will be specified as part of the overall design. Furniture shall be identified
the construction contract in coordination with for procurement by others.

rTTrnv

Figure 3-10 Subdivision Large Group Area into Small Group Activities

3-9
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Design Considerations - January 1976

(2) Mandatory Sources. Mandatory sources one inch nosing. The nosing of each step must
for selection and procurement of furnishings be clearly visible and not disguised by confusing
are listed in the GSA Federal Supply Schedules, patterns or poor and glaring light.
the Federal Prison Industries Schedule of (b) The combination of built-in seating
Products and the General GSA Stock Catalog. that defines the space and its activities with
Procurement by the using service from these movable furniture that is flexible will permit an
sources is mandatory insofar as the items endless variety of arrangements that will
covered meet requirements. For items not listed encourage social interaction in an informal
in the mandatory sources above but which are atmosphere.
part of the overall design scheme, appropriate
guidance will be provided for procurement by (6) Sound Control. Sound control is an
the using service. important consideration when selecting mate-
rials, finishes and furnishings. Carpeting is not
(3) Drawings and Schedules. Drawings and only attractive; its capability to absorb sound
schedules concerning items not included in the and reduce impact noises is also the most
construction contract must be provided in a cost-effective means of developing the proper
format that can be readily issued to and be acoustical environment. Insulation, sound
understood by installation personnel who are absorption panels, and acoustical ceilings
responsible for procurement, and personnel should be considered to reduce sound transmis-
who are responsible for component placement sion,
and utilization after delivery. Display sheets
b. MATERIAL AND COLOR SELECTION.
consisting of placement plans, catalog illustra-
tions, material/color samples and perspective (1) Interior Finishes. Interior finishes shall
sketches of typical spaces, together with be appropriate for the function of the building
procurement lists, source data and cost and spaces. Selection of materials should be
estimates will be developed as appropriate to based on their attractiveness as well as low
accomplish this objective. Coordination maintenance qualities considering anticipated
between these drawings and schedules and the use, life cycle cost impact, fire and other safety"
finish schedules under the construction con- requirements.
tract must be evident. (2) Color. Use of color in Army facilities is
(4) Character. The interior design must limited to a practical number selected from the
create an atmosphere in the Center that is most Federal Standard 595A, Colors. General guid-
conducive to recreation and relaxation by being ante for color selection is provided in TM
informal, colorful, cheerful, and contemporary. 5-807-7, Colors for Buildings. Colors should be
Because of constantly changing social values, used to stimulate human physical and emo-
the interior design should also permit redec- tional reactions and to enhance the overall
oration with minimum cost and effort. functioning of the Recreation Center. There-
fore the color scheme should be coordinated
(5) Adaptability. Several interior design
with the activities that will take place,
features should be considered to make the
considering the number of participants, the size
Recreation Center as adaptable as possible.
of the space, and the amount of physical
(a) The spatial division of large group activity involved. High contrasts in hue and
spaces into small group areas with built-in brightness and low contrasts in saturation are
seating, half-level partitions, and selective most appealing; these should be used in large
changes in level will encourage the use of steps group and transitional spaces. In smaller spaces,
as seats, landings as stages, and half-level such as the carrels, the color schemes should be
partitions as podiums, permitting a range of unified to reduce a sense of claustrophobia.
multiple uses throughout the Center. Whenever Warm colors tend to increase physical activity
level changes are used to subdivide spaces, the and should be used in physically active areas —
risers should never be higher than seven inches pingpong,dancing, etc. Cool colors are most
and the treads never less than eleven inches plus effectively used for mentally stimulating

3-10
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Design Considerations - January 1976

Figure 3-11 Use of Built-in and Movable Furniture

pursuits such as music practice, studying and mainly decorative, should also incorporate
meetings. useful information such as room numbers,
directional indicators, Army insignia, and club
(3) Interior Finish and Color Coordination.
Finish materials must be selected in conjunc- identity. Care should be taken in their design so
tion with color selection. The color, texture, that they can be effective in livening up spaces
and pattern of materials should complement and producing interest in large rooms or
the overall design scheme and be in character circulation spaces.
with the desired image of the using service and
c. SIGNAGE.
the installation/command. Native (local) mate-
rials should be used to the greatest extent (1) General. Signage requirements will be
practicable. Long-life materials such as stones, developed as an overall graphics system to
tiles, woods, plastics, and vinyls should be identify spaces, provide directional informa-
selected to provide attractive colors, textures tion, and convey messages about control (no
and patterns that will not quickly become smoking, etc.). Detailed requirements of the
out-dated. using service will be coordinated at the local
level. The system should assure maximum
(4) Supergraphics. Supergraphics, while economy, ease of procurement and installation,

3-11
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Design Considerations - January 1976

and standardization of application throughout entrances of activity areas where there is a need
the Recreation Center. It should also inhibit to elaborate upon the type of activity inside or
vandalism but be flexible enough to enable the to give the names of participants and staff
addition or deletion of information. The involved.
signage system should incorporate the types of (2) Sign Design. Symbols tend to reduce the
signs discussed below. amount of signage required and are easier to
(a) Facility Identifier Sign. A facility assimilate than words. The use of symbols,
identification sign should be located in the pictographs, and wall graphics should be
entry area oriented toward exterior pedestrian considered instead of words. However, if they
traffic. The sign should identify the building are used, care should be taken in their design so
number and the facility. It may also indicate that the information is communicated to and
the hours of Center operation. Size of lettering understood by the patrons. When words are
and the exact location of the sign should be used, a legible and attractive letterform, such as
determined in each individual case in relation to Helvetica Medium or Clarendon should be used.
the architectural design. Letter sizes should be appropriate for the
message and be coordinated as part of the
(b) Activity Locator Signs. A building overall design scheme. Signs should be located
activity locator sign should be provided in a as close to eye level as possible and be
prominent place in the entry area. The locator illuminated to provide adequate comprehen-
should identify and locate building spaces, key sion.
activities and personnel. Use of a graphic
locator, such as a schematic building plan, d. FURNITURE. Furniture is an integral part
should be considered. of the overall design scheme, and will be closely
coordinated with the selection of colors and
(c) Identification Signs. Individual finish materials for consistency in appearance
spaces should be identified either by number
and quality. Detailed requirements are covered
and name signs or pictographs. The signs should
in Chapter 4, individual Space Criteria.
be located next to the door on the knob side.
(1) Durability, Comfort and Safety. Careful
(d) Direction Signs. Directions should attention must be given to all interior
be provided to highly used spaces such as the furnishings to insure that the type of furniture
snack bar or out-of-the-way spaces. chosen conforms to standards of durability,
comfort and safety, appropriate for the use
(e) Control and Safety Signs. Messages
they will receive. Being generally mobile,
to control the behavior of the patrons such as
furniture items are subject to handling. Parts
"No Smoking" or "No Food Permitted" must
that receive the most wear should be
be used to convey messages to patrons in a
replaceable, and finishes should sustain regular
friendly but firm manner. Since symbols and
cleaning.
pictographs cause less resentment and opposi-
tion than if the message is conveyed in words, (2) Mobility and Interchangeability. Most
this type of sign should be used throughout the interior furnishings should not be of a scale
Center. Also, the locations of exits, fire
which would require more than two persons to
protection and safety equipment should be relocate them, or be so complicated as to
strongly emphasized. require an undue amount of time to assemble
(f) Notice Boards. Notice boards help or disassemble. Whenever possible, care should
control clutter and can readily accommodate be taken to choose multipurpose furnishings
changing information. They should be used aesthetically suitable for a variety of needs and
throughout the building wherever they will be activities. Stackable and foldable furniture
most useful. A general notice board should be should be considered for reducing bulkiness in
located in the entry of the Recreation Center. storage and transport where such requirements
Smaller boards may be located next to exist.

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Design Considerations - January 1976

3-5 DESIGNING FOR ENERGY CONSERVATION SUMMER SOLSTICE

a. BUILDING ORIENTATION. To conserve JUNE 21
energy, the building design must be responsive Highest angle of
to the predominant climate, prevailing winds
and sun angles.
(1) Solar Orientation. In a colder clime,
reduction of heat loss is desirable; fenestration
should concentrate on the southern exposure
with minimal northern exposure. In a warmer
clime, the prevention of heat gain is desirable; WINTER SOLSTICE
this should result in maximum fenestration on DEC 22
the northern exposure and minimum on the Lowest angle of
southern exposure. noon sun

North Pole
Figure 3-14 Solar Shading Devices

Latitude determines the (2) Prevailing Winds. In cold climate,

amount of solar energy entrances and glazed areas should be oriented
away from the prevailing winter winds. In warm
climates the building should be oriented to
allow maximum breeze penetration.
(3) Solar Shading. Solar controls should be
Longitude has negligible planned to help achieve maximum energy
effect on solar energy savings. External shading devices are the most
effective means of solar shading. Deciduous
trees can provide shade in summer and
penetration of sunlight in the winter; evergreens
can protect the building entrances from winter
Figure 3-12 Amount of Solar Energy winds.
b. BUILDING ENCLOSURE. There should be
a high ratio of enclosed space to exposed
building surface to minimize negative outdoor
effects, in a warm climate the function of the
building envelope is to prevent heat gain and to
reflect solar heat; in a cold climate the function
is to retain heat and to absorb solar heat;
therefore, building materials should be selected
accordingly.
c. ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS. The ventila-
tion system of the Recreation Centers should
be planned to maximize use of natural
ventilation, recirculate air where possible, and
minimize use of outdoor air. System design
should be based on ventilation zones and
should be calculated at a 5% design condition
Figure 3-13 Sun's Path during Year rather than 1 or 2.5% weather condition.

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Design Considerations - January 1976

Calculations should be based on the occupied ever, special emphasis should be placed on the
hours with people, lights, and equipment taken design of Recreation Centers to accommodate
into consideration. the physically handicapped including provisions
for stairs and ramps; toilet accommodations;
d. LIGHTING SYSTEMS. Lighting design for
drinking fountains; telephones; counter heights;
Recreation Centers should employ task lighting
corridor widths; entrances; and signage.
in which specific areas are lighted according to
the activity being performed; uniform lighting
systems should be avoided. Natural lighting
through the use of windows and skylights
should be utilized to reduce dependence on
electric lights, reduce heat gain, and accom-
modate the functional requirements for day-
light and view. The use of dimmers should be
considered to control the level of illumination
as well as local switching of lighting.

3-6 DESIGNING FOR THE PHYSICALLY

HANDICAPPED
Since the Recreation Center is for the total
military community which includes depend-
ents, DA civilian employees, and retired
military personnel, the likelihood is great that
people who are physically handicapped will use
the Center or will be employed in the Center.
Therefore, the design of the facility must
conform to Public Law 94-80 which was
enacted to insure that "certain buildings
financed with Federal Funds are so designed
and constructed as to be accessible to "the
physically handicapped," ER 1110-1-102,
"Design for the Physically Handicapped"
prescribes the necessary requirements. How-

Figure 3-15 Dimensions of Man In a Wheelchair

3-14
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

CHAPTER 4
INDIVIDUAL SPACE CRITERIA
4-1 GENERAL Various categories of information are then
presented about each space, including the
a. CONTENTS. This Chapter, which provides following:
detailed information necessary in planning and • Function, or the purpose of the space and
designing Recreation Centers, is divided into the activities it houses
seven paragraphs which correspond to the seven • Participants, or the characteristics of the
types of activities that will be housed in the users
facility: • Size, or the overall area of the space and the
• Transitional Activities unit areas which comprise the space
• Large Group Activities • Relationships, or the requirements for
• Small Group Activities proximity to or remoteness from other
• Administration Activities activities
• Refreshment Activities • Design Considerations, or the important
• Service Activities physical features that support the function
• Outdoor Activities of the space
b. ORGANIZATION. • Technical Requirements, or the guidelines
for the environmental systems design and
(1) Activity Groups. The activity groups are
specify the performance requirements for
presented in order of their importance to the each system within ±2% tolerance. The
functional and spatial design of the Center. For
acustical criteria is provided to guide the
example, the Transitional Area is presented first
design of the other systems rather than as a
because the single most important spatial requirement for a definitive acoustical
consideration is the movement of people analysis and design
through the Center, not only movement to a • Interior Requirements, or the finishing of the
desired activity, but movement past other
space
activities and other people, encouraging the
broadest possible range of participation in C HOW THIS INFORMATION IS TO BE
activities and social interaction. USED. When planning Recreation Centers, this
Chapter should be reviewed by the using service
The Large Group Activities are presented next
to develop a program suitable for local
because the central program area is the largest
constraints and opportunities (mission, loca-
single space in the Center, dominating its
tion, staff) by supplementing the functional
overall character and housing the most diverse
requirements to accommodate local conditions.
group of activities.
Supplemental requirements should be doc-
The Small Group Activities are discussed next, umented in the Project Development Brochure
and divided according to their size and and be consistent with the general requirements
requirements for enclosure. of this guide.
(2) Individual Spaces. Individual space
descriptions within each activity group are
arranged according to sequential use of
information in the design process, starting with
general information which affects planning and
conceptual design issues to specific, detailed
criteria used in design development.

4-1
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4Transitional Activities
Figure 4-

4-2
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-2 TRANSITIONAL ACTIVITIES

a. CIRCULATION/LOUNGE AREAS.
(1) Function. To integrate circulation and (3) Size.
individual activities into a unified whole by Overall
providing a variety of experiences that encour- Approximately 15% of total floor area of the
age casual interaction between individuals as Center
well as transitory involvement and visual Lounges
contact between activities. All Centers 100-150 SF
Transitional area activities consist of cir-
(4) Relationships. The transitional area is
culating, casually observing Center activities by
integrated with all Recreation Center activities
staff and patrons, casually conversing, viewing
and provides immediate access to all areas,
displays and exhibits, entering and exiting
except to the mechanical equipment room
functional areas within the Center, storing
which must be entered from outside the
books and coats in lockers, and moving heavy
building.
program props, musical and audio-visual equip-
ment. Lounges should be provided and located in
(2) Participants. A variable number of alcoves adjacent to circulation and between
individuals and small groups of two or more. adjacent activity areas to encourage sponta-

Lobby

Lounge

Central Program Area

-Lounge

Figure 4-2 Circulation/Lounge Areas

4-3
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

neous conversations among people meeting (d) HVAC

while circulating between activities. Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50%
(5) Design Considerations. Circulation paths Winter 68°
through the building must be easily understood Air changes 6 per hour
by the users, especially in large Centers so that (e) Communications
the user can circulate without loss of
orientation. P/A 1 station per 100'
Sound 1 speaker per 100'
Long, straight corridor-like spaces should be 1 headphone jack and chan-
avoided; widths and configurations should vary nel selector per 4' of seating
according to use patterns. Overflow areas mtd 36" above floor
should be developed at entrances to highly used
(f) Acoustics
spaces. Small lounges should be provided at
these points and equipped to be used as waiting Noise criteria PNC 35-40
space, game areas, informal meeting places or Appropriate sound level 34-40 dB
music listening areas with headphones. Ave coef of absorption 0.30-0.40
Those activities that do not require partitioning Transmission (STC) +40 dB
for acoustical privacy should be left open to the Impact noise rating +5
transitional area and be defined through the use (g) Critical Dimensions
of low partitions, changes in floor levels,
60" minimum width ramps, 1' in 12'
changes in color and light intensity and built-in
perimeter seating. (7) Interior Requirements
Lounges should be integrated with the main- (a) Equipment
stream of activity and designed to limit Ash urns, trash receptacles
distractions, permit reading and music listening,
(b) Furniture
and conversations.
Built-in lounge seating; information
Ramp access to all major spaces from the
kiosks (provided by using service)
transitional area is required to facilitate the
movement of heavy equipment and hand- (c) Finish Suggestions
icapped personnel.
Walls painted drywall
Different colors and/or textures of floor Floors carpet
materials should be used in conjunction with Ceiling acoustical tile
changes in ceiling and lighting treatments to
(d) Colors
introduce, interrupt, or reinforce movement to
or from different activity areas. Walls off-white
Floors warm accent colors
(6) Technical Requirements Ceilings white
(a) Illumination Graphics primary accent colors
Level 20 ftc
Type directional fluorescent
Control centrally from control desk;
emergency lighting

(b) Power
Outlets 1 per 50' length

(c) Plumbing
Drinking fountains (1 mtd for physically
handicapped)

4-4
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-2 TRANSITIONAL ACTIVITIES (continued)

b. ENTRY/LOBBY.
(1) Function. To provide a controlled (3) Size.
entrance to and exit from the Center in a Overall
congenial atmosphere which welcomes the 12,700 SF Center 250 SF
visitor and encourages use of the Center. Also, 19,800 SF Center 400 SF
to provide information about current activities 27,800 SF Center 550 SF
and to orient the patrons to the spatial Space/Unit 2% of total floor area
arrangement of the Center. (4) Relationships. Lobby should be adjacent
Entry/Lobby activities include entering and to and visible from the control desk and ITT.
leaving the Center, casually conversing with There should be easy access to AAFES snack
others, seeking information about Center bar and vending area or amusement center,
activities, milling about after events, or waiting special interest, public toilets, and telephone
for other people. area.
(2) Participants. Any number of individuals (5) Design Considerations. The entry should
or small groups as well as large groups after be easily perceived by potential users. It should
central program presentations and at group therefore be prominently located on the main
meetings. facade of the building, serving as its main visual

Central Program Space

Refreshment

Control Center

Public Toilets

Vestibule

Entry Court J**

Figure 4-3 Lobby

4-5
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

element. In order for it to be inviting to the Special 2 per kiosk in ceiling

users, it should be visually open and permit (c) HVAC
sighting of a number of activities upon entering.
Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50%
Because some functions may be operating when Winter 68°
the remainder of the Center is closed (e.g., Air changes 6 per hour
AAFES snack bar or amusement center, special
interest, ITT and public telephones), the lobby (d) Communications
should be designed to permit access to these P/A 1 station
areas and the public toilets as well as restrict Sound 1 speaker
entry into other areas. The use of rolling 1 headphone jack and chan-
screens mounted in the ceiling or walls and nel selector per 4' of seating
other attractive means of security which enable mtd 36" above floor
the Center to be visually open and have a
(e) Acoustics
welcoming appearance should be employed.
Noise criteria PNC 35-40
To conserve energy, the entry should be located
Appropriate sound level 34-40 dB
away from prevailing winter winds. In cold Ave coef of absorption 0.30-0.40
climates, a vestibule should be used to prevent
Transmission (STC) +40 dB
drafts. Impact noise rating +5
Built-in informal seating should be available so
that people may wait in the lobby in comfort. (7) Interior Requirements
However, such seating should not interfere with (a) Equipment
movement into or out of the Center.
Information about the physical layout of the Ash urns, trash receptacles
Center must be provided to the visitor so that (b) Furniture
activities and programs may be located without
Built-in lounge seating; information
confusion. The following graphic devices should
kiosks (provided by using service)
be provided in a conspicuous and attractive
manner: facility identification sign with hours (c) Finish Suggestions
of operation; activity location signs that Walls painted drywall
identify activities and locate them on a Floors carpet; rubber mat in
schematic building plan; notice boards for vestibule
future activities, off-post activities, and per- Ceiling acoustical tile
sonal messages; and directional signs to locate (d) Colors
highly used spaces as well as out-of-the-way
spaces. In addition, there should be provision Walls off -white
for kiosk display area (provided by using Floors warm accent colors
service) for presenting special information. Ceilings white
Display kiosks should accommodate rearview Graphics primary accent colors
projection (super 8 mm film and 35 mm slides)
and self-contained tapes.
(6) Technical Requirements
(a) Illumination
Level 20 ftc
Type directional fluorescent
Control centrally from control desk;
emergency lighting
(b) Power
Outlets 1 per 50' length

4-6
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

Figure 4-4 Large Group Activities

4-7
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-3 LARGE GROUP ACTIVITIES

a. CENTRAL PROGRAM AREA.

(1) Function. The central program area viewing a presentation, or diffuse, as in single
houses the following large group activities: participation activities).
dance events, festivals, exhibits, game activities (2) Participants. Small groups include par-
such as bingo, informal entertainment presenta- ticipation from one to four people (involved in
tions, short films, and large group TV viewing. games, conversing, snacking, etc.); intermediate
When there are no large group activities groups involve as many as 50 participants
scheduled, small group activities can be housed: (viewing a special event or presentation); and
card and game playing, eating and drinking, large groups, comprised of as many as 500,
conversing and lounging. Also, non-recreational whose focus may vary from that of a single
activities can take place in the central program group watching a performance, to couples
area such as blood donation drives, command- dancing.
er's call, or graduation ceremonies.
(3) Size.
These activities vary along three dimensions: Overall
total number of people involved; sizes of groups 12,700 SF Center 3,000 SF minimum
(can be one large group or a number of smaller 19,800 SF Center 3,760 SF minimum
groups); and focus of attention (central, as in 27,800 SF Center 4,635 SF minimum

Lobby

TV Lounge

Enclosed
Multipurpose
Space

Open ^
Multipurpose ^
Space

Platform
Figure 4-5 Central Program Area

4-8
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

Space/Unit
8 SF per participant: formal seating
12 SF per participant: table seating
WWOQ
J oooooo
15 SF per participant: dancing or active

(4) Relationships. The central program area

should be encircled by compatible small group
r r
activity areas and should be immediately
accessible to the following: pantry, terrace,
3
eating areas, the control center, toilet rooms,
and the storage area for tables and chairs.
T-
Dance/Social Central Demonstration
However, it should be remote or acoustically
separated from noisy activities such as pool,
pingpong, electric games, combo practice and
special interest activities that are disruptive to
the central program area's special functions.
Because of the large numbers of people exiting
from the central program area at one time, the
transitional area at the central program area
should form a lobby-lounge where people can
mill about before going to another activity or
leaving the facility.
Exhibit & Small Film or Presentation
(5) Design Considerations. The configura-
tion of the central program area should allow Group Activities
overlap with other activity areas such as Figure 4-6 Central Program Area Alternative Use Plans
circulation, lounges, eating, small group activity
rooms, platform and terrace. A variety of enough to allow activities other than large
observation and entrance experiences should be group viewing of a presentation.
created by the areas which overlook and project Spatial variety should be developed through the
into the central program area. These activities use of stairs, half level partitions, changes in
should be exposed through the use of window floor level and ceiling height, mezzanines (when
openings, cutouts and railings in place of walls practical). Ramps are a requirement to facilitate
whenever a solid wall is not required for privacy the movement of equipment and furnishings as
or acoustical control. In addition, a fireplace well as handicapped personnel. The changes in
lounge should be provided which is open to the floor level should also be planned to increase
central program area. viewing angles and improve sight lines to the
platform and central area.
The central program area should be developed
(6) Technical Requirements
with several potential focal points in addition
to a presentation platform; there should be a (a) Illumination
central, large area for demonstrations and Level Dancing 5 ftc
exhibits. The seating areas should be oriented Assembly 15 ftc
towards these foci. Exhibits 30 ftc
The interior of the central program area should General illumination in accord-
be as flexible as possible in order to ance with IES Lighting Hand-
accommodate the many activities taking place book.
and the variable group size of the participants. Type Pooled over activity areas
No one area should be limited by function; for Adjustable track lighting -
instance, the seating area should be flexible multi-circuit

4-9
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

Overall illumination - fluores- (a) Equipment

cent Special effects & audio-visual equipment
Accent & display - incandes- (provided by using service)
cent Heavy duty drapery hardware for
Special effects - strobes, pro- black-out drapes
jectors
(b) Furniture
(provided by using service)
Control Zoned on separate dimmers Built-in lounge seating; stacking chairs;
House panel behind stage and folding card and long tables
control desk (c) Finish Suggestions
Outlets Wall mtd 18" above floor 25'
o.e. Walls painted or fabric-covered
Floor outlets (large group area wall board
only) every 200 SF Floor carpet, dance area — hard-
Ceiling outlets - plug adapters wood
in light track using spare circuit Ceiling exposed structure, painted
Clock Stage - wall mtd 2'-0" below (d) Color
ceiling line
Walls off -white
(b) HVAC Accent primary accent colors
Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50% Structure primary accent colors
Winter 68°-70°
Air changes 15 per hour
(c) Communications
P/A 1 station per 500 SF
Sound 1 speaker per 500 SF
1 headphone jack and chan-
nel selector per 4' of seating
in lounge areas
TV antenna jack in lounge areas
Sound Reinforcement System
capability of 110 dB sound
pressure level loudspeakers
—
central cluster above plat-
form.
(d) Acoustics
Noise criteria PNC 20
Appropriate sound level 30 dB
Reverberation time 1.6-1.8 seconds
Ave coef of absorption 0.10-0.20 ceiling
0.25-0.40 walls
Transmission (STC) +50-60 dB
Impact noise rating +5
(e) Critical Dimensions
Ceiling height 14' average
10' minimum
24' maximum

(7) Interior Requirements

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-3 LARGE GROUP ACTIVITIES (continued)

b. PLATFORM.
(1) Function. The platform serves as a focus (3) Size.
during large group activities and as supplemen- Platform Dressing Storage Loading Recmobile
tary seating during demonstrations or exhibi-
12,700 SF Center
tions in the round and as small group activity
750 200 300 100
space for meetings, card playing, etc.
19,800 SF Center
Activities consist of speaking to, performing
for, or being watched by a large group;
750 250 450 100
equipment being stored or received from 27,800 SF Center
outside; set construction and movement; 750 300 500 100 300
scenery and prop preparation and storage; (4) Relationships. Because of its functions,
costume changes. the platform is the focal point of the central
(2) Participants, Panelists, speakers, instruc- program area and should be encircled by it,
tors, and large and small group performers to much the same way that the central platform
include dance bands, choruses, etc. area is encircled by small group activity areas.

I— Dressing Room

I—Loft Storage
n— lights

Figure 4-7 Platform

4-11
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Since Criteria - January 1976

The platform should be located adjacent to, coordinated with using service)
immediately accessible to, and on the same 6 front spotlights,
level as the following support activities: storage, ellipsoidal reflector 250w
loading and dressing rooms. Locate the dressing 3 disappearing floodlights,
room toilets remote from walls adjoining the 9 lamp, 150w
platform. 6 rear spotlights,
(5) Design Considerations. The platform Fresnel 150w
should be planned as a thrust or open platform 2 border lights, 8'; 16
that projects into the central program area lamps, 4 colors 100w
between 5 and 10 feet, so that it can be used in 1 background 25',36"
a traditional manner or in the round. The lamps, 3 colors 200w
platform should be at least 3 feet above the 2 work lights 200w
floor of the central program area and should (b) Power
have surrounding steps that can be used for
seating or presenting exhibitions. Special Outlets
1 connector strip 24' long
The platform should be no less than 20 feet 2 surface mtd outlet boxes
wide at the opening to the central program area 4 4-way floor pockets
to afford reasonable lines of sight to the 1 wall receptacle, 2-way 50 amp
presentation area.
Outlets 1 wall mtd in dressing rm,
The platform should accommodate a variety of 36" above floor
uses, such as a platform for presentations, a
(c) Plumbing
forum for impromptu meetings, a lounge for
casual interaction, and a setting for films and WC and lavatory for each dressing rm
large screen TV presentations. (d) HVAC
The levels adjacent to the platform should be Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50%
used as an area for loose chairs and tables or as Winter 650-68°
seats themselves. Air changes 15 per hour
Platform support areas include program prop (e) Communications
storage, storage for stacking chairs and folding
P/A 1 station in each dressing
chair trucks, loft storage with access ladder for
rm, 1 in storage
seasonal equipment, two dressing rooms and
Phone 1 to control desk
loading area.
TV Antenna jack
In main Recreation Centers, an additional Sound Amplifiers and speakers as
storage area with outside entrance for loading required by using service.
should be provided for Recmobile equipment. See central program area for
Recmobile storage requirements must include requirements.
secure storage for miscellaneous audio-visual
aids, program props, portable platform equip- (f) Acoustics
ment, and musical instruments. Noise criteria PNC 35
Appropriate sound level 42 dB
(6) Technical Requirements.
Ave coef of absorption 0.15-0.25
(a) Illumination Transmission (STC) +45-50 d B
Level general, 20 ftc; dressing rm (7) Interior Requirements.
mirror, 50 ftc
Type indirect fluorescent (a) Equipment
Control local switching Electrically powered film screen
Platform Lighting: (to be used for Electrically powered platform curtain
guidance only; requirements must be Fly and rear platform curtain

4-12
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

(b) Furniture
Counter and mirror in each dressing rm
(c) Finish Suggestions
Walls painted exposed block or
drywall
Floors hardwood
Ceiling exposed structure
(d) Colors
Walls charcoal
Ceiling charcoal
Curtains primary accent colors

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-3 LARGE GROUP ACTIVITIES (continued)

c. PANTRY.
(1) Function. The pantry houses equipment service island, as well as the equipment listed in
for food preparation and service by Center staff paragraph f.
to participants of large group activities or One side of the room requires a serving window
snacks for Center patrons; small cooking classes to the central program area to facilitate the
and demonstrations are also held here. distribution of refreshments.
(2) Participants. Staff member or members, (6) Technical Requirements
often assisted by non-staff people numbering (a) Illumination
up to eight.
Level 50 ftc on counter surface;
(3) Size. 30 ftc general
All Centers 250 SF minimum Type direct task, fluorescent
Control local switch
(4) Relationships. The pantry should be
immediately accessible to the central program (b) Power
area. It should be near the administrative Outlets 1 every 12' mtd at 42"
offices and the control center. above floor
(5) Design Considerations. The pantry 1 at freezer, refrigerator, ice
should be planned to accommodate perimeter machine, mtd 18" above
counters and appliances and a centrally located floor

Administrative Offices
Control Center
- Lounge

Central Program Area

Terrace

Figure 4-8 Pantry

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

Special clock outlet mtd 2' below Cd) Colors

ceiling Walls off -white
Range outlet (220v); gar- Accent cool primary accent colors
bage disposal unit
(c) Plumbing
Ice machine
Double bowl, deep-well kitchen sink
Built-in dishwasher
(d) HVAC
Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50%
Winter 65°-680
Air changes 8 per hour
Provide range hood and exhaust fan
(e) Communications
P/A 1 station
Sound 1 speaker station
(f) Acoustics
Noise criteria PNC 35
Sound level 42dB
Ave coef of absorption 0.30-0.40
Transmission (STC) +43 d B
(7) Interior Requirements
(a) Equipment
Ice machine, coffee maker, popcorn
machine, refrigerator, freezer, range,
sink, disposer, dishwasher, wall and base
cabinets
(b) Furniture
stools

mi 1.
2.
Range
Double Sink
3. Dishwasher

Ii
4.
5.
Refrigerator/Freezer
Ice-Maker

Li 6.
7.
Service Counter
Trash Receptacle

Figure 4-9 Pantry Equipment Layout

(c) Finish Suggestions

Walls vinyl covered drywall
Floors sheet vinyl or epoxy resin
Ceiling acoustical tile

4-15
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

Figure 4-10 Small Group Activities

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-4 SMALL GROUP ACTIVITIES

a. ACTIVE GAMES AREA.
(1) Function. These areas house physical, This space will be divided into separate areas
active and noisy games. Those involved are for billiards, pingpong, and electric games
either watching, waiting or participating in according to popularity and local equipment.
billiards, pingpong, shuffle board, air hockey, Space/Unit
table soccer and electric games. Games are Billiard tables (standard 9'x4'-6") 215 SF
played individually or as part of a tournament Pingpong (9'x5' table) 250 SF
varv
program Electric games
(2) Participants. Two to five people per (4) Relationships. Locate activity near the
table. The number of onlookers varies. control center for equipment distribution and
(3) Size. surveillance.

Overall Because food and drinks from the snack bar or

12,700 SF Center 1,500 SF minimum vending machines are a source of damage to the
19,800 SF Center 2,700 SF minimum equipment, locate pool tables and electric
27,800 SF Center 3,800 SF minimum games away from these areas.

Lobby

-Open
Multipurpose
Lounge 0
■ Equipment Distribution/Control

Figure 4-11 Active Games Area

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

Integrate overlooks, small conversation lounges Transmission (STC) +60 dB

or standing areas with the activity to (g) Critical Dimensions
accommodate spectators and people waiting to
Room widths because of table sizes with
play.
clearance
(5) Design Considerations. Visual access to Pingpong = 21' x 12'
the outside is desirable but not mandatory since Billiards = 19'-6" x 12'-9"
participants' attention is oriented to the games.
Window openings should not produce glare on (7) Interior Requirements
the tables. Glass areas must be protected from (a) Equipment
wild cue balls and sticks. Billiard tables and racks
Spectator seating should define limits of the Pingpong tables
area and separate specific activities. Wide Electric games
perimeter bench seating should be provided in Other games
at least two tiers to accommodate spectator All as required and provided by using
seating in tournament situations and lounging service
during normal gaming. (b) Furniture
Electric games must be securable when remote Built-in lounge seats on perimeter
from the control center.
(c) Finish Suggestions
(6) Technical Requirements
Walls fabric covered acoustical
(a) Illumination
panels
Level 50 ftc Floors carpet, except pingpong
Type fluorescent suspended over
Ceilings exposed structure, painted
tables
Control switched at control desk (d) Colors

(b) Power Walls off -white

Accent warm primary accent colors
Outlets Electric game area - wall
receptacles, 1 every 4';
floor, every 10' o.e.
General game - 1 every 20'
Special clock outlet mtd 2' below
ceiling
(c) Plumbing
None
(d) HVAC
Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50%
Winter OS'-OS0
Air changes 15 per hour
(e) Communications
P/A 1 speaker station
Sound 1 speaker station, each area
3 headphone jacks in wait-
ing area
(f) Acoustics
Noise criteria PNC 35-45
Appropriate sound level 42-52 dB
Ave coef of absorption 0.50-0.60

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-4 SMALL GROUP ACTIVITIES (continued)

b. TELEVISION LOUNGE.
(1) Function. To house TV viewing areas (4) Relationships. The television viewing
and reduce conflict with other activities. area should be located away from noisy
Activities are watching and listening to activities such as billiards, pingpong, electric
television, quietly conversing and engaged in games, music practice, and special interest, but
small group meetings. in a variety of settings throughout the Center.

(2) Participants. One to 50 people standing, A minimum of two lounges should be provided
sitting, intently or casually watching and or, if possible, at least one lounge for each local
listening to TV. television station.
(3) Size. The entrance to the TV space should be open
to the transition area and should encourage
Overall
casual observation of the activity prior to
12,700 SF Center 750 SF minimum
entering the lounge.
19,800 SF Center 1,000 SF minimum
27,800 SF Center 1,250 SF minimum (5) Design Considerations. TV lounges must
Space/Unit 10 SF per viewer facilitate a flexible and informal arrangement of

r-built in stepped seating

-built in T-V set

Lounge chairs

carrels

Figure 4-12 Television Lounge

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers ■ Individual Space Criteria January 1976

furniture which will also serve for small group (c) Finish Suggestions
meetings and game areas. Walls fabric or wood slat covered
acoustical panels
Circulation paths should not occur in front of
the screen; do not use two or more sets in the Floors carpet
Ceiling acoustical tile
same area.
Consideration should be given to the installa- (d) Colors
tion of small sound clouds, baffles, or panels to Walls charcoal or cool accent
assist in the reduction of sound transfer from colors
the area. Accent warm primary or contem-
The focal point of the area should be the porary accent colors
screen; attention should be given to sight lines
(vertically and horizontally) of viewers to the
screens.
(6) Technical Requirements
(a) Illumination
Level 10 ftc
Type incandescent area
Control local switch with dimmer
(b) Power
Outlets 1 per set
1 per lounge area
Special antenna hook-up
(c) HVAC
Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50%
Winter 68°-72°
Air changes 20 per hour
(d) Communications
P/A 1 station
TV antenna jack
Requirements for Educational TV Serv-
ice and/or central control system for
volume and channel selection should be
coordinated with the using service.
(e) Acoustics
Noise criteria PNC 30
Sound level 38 dB
Ave coef of absorption 0.40-0.50
Transmission (STC) +50-60 dB
(7) Interior Requirements
(a) Equipment
Televisions
(b) Furniture
Built-in perimeter bench seating,
movable lounge chairs

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-4 SMALL GROUP ACTIVITIES (continued)

c. TABLE GAME AREAS.

(1) Function. These areas house quiet (4) Relationships. Locate cards and games
activities in an informal space that encourages area near pantry and vending and remote from
informal participation in or observation of card noise generating activities such as billiards,
games, table games, tournaments, meetings, pingpong, electric games and music practice.
group discussions, classes, reading, or listening
(5) Design Considerations. The need for a
to records or tapes over the sound system.
direct visual link to the outside is not as
(2) Participants. Two or four persons per important as the opportunity for casual
table. The number of observers varies. 30 or observation of the transitional area or other
more people may be participating in meetings. nearby activities.
(3) Size.
In small facilities, cards and games must be
Overall accommodated in an area that is suitable for
All Centers Small game area 150 SF
other activities.
Large game area 600 SF
Space/Unit 15 SF per participant-Lounge In facilities larger than 12,700 SF, the card and
20 SF per participant-Table game area can respond more directly to its

Carrels

Pantry

Vending

TV Lounge

perimeter seating

Figure 4-13 Table Game Area

4-21
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

primary use. This area should depend on low (c) Finish Suggestions
partitions, built-in seating and changes in level, Walls painted drywall
material and color to separate it from Floors acoustical tile
compatible activities. The built-in perimeter
(d) Color
seating reduces the need for loose chairs, acts as
a protective base for the wall and is suitable to Walls off-white or light tints
any arrangement of tables and chairs; it also Accents cool contemporary or pri
acts as an elevated platform for speakers during mary accent colors
meetings, and as a display surface during
exhibits. Secure storage must be provided for
chairs, blackboards, and audio-visual equipment
used during meetings.
Design should facilitate circulation and personal
interaction.
(6) Technical Requirements
(a) Illumination
Level 30 ftc on table surface; 10
ftc general
Type incandescent task, fluores-
cent general
Control local switch with dimmer
(b) Power
Outlets 1 per wall
Special clock outlet mtd 2' below
ceiling
(c) HVAC
Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50%
Winter 68°-72<'
Air changes 15 per hour
(d) Communications
P/A 1 station
Sound 1 speaker station; 1 head-
phone jack every 6' of
partition
(e) Acoustics
Noise criteria PNC 30
Sound level 38dB
Ave coef of absorption 0.30-0.40
Transmission (STC) +45dB
(7) Interior Requirements
(a) Equipment
None
(b) Furniture
Tables, movable lounge chairs, built-in
seating

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-4 SMALL GROUP ACTIVITIES (continued)

d. OPEN MULTIPURPOSE AREA

(1) Function. This space houses project (4) Relationships. The entrance into the
activities so that litter and debris are controlled area should encourage casual observation of the
and not permitted to interfere with other areas. activity by patrons in the transitional area. It
Activities include informal participation in should be located near the staff workroom and
hobbies, sewing, newsletter publications, dec- the control desk.
orations, special projects such as program prop
(5) Design Considerations. General planning
construction or audio-visual presentations,
for this activity should maintain flexibility to
classes and program planning sessions.
facilitate a variety of work area arrangements.
(2) Participants. UP to thirty people sitting The hobby area must also accommodate other
at tables, working on individual or group activities; therefore, the sink, cleanup and
projects. storage areas should be minimized and separate
(3) Size. from the main space.

Overall Consideration should be given to the use of

exposed joists in the ceiling to facilitate the use
Small open multipurpose area 150 SF of inexpensive display lighting that can clamp
Large open multipurpose area 600 SF
onto the structure wherever desired.
Storage 10% of floor area Cover the walls with material that will receive
Space/Unit 25 SF per participant thumbtacks such as washable vinyl cork. Avoid

Storage Room
adjustable shelves/sink perimeter seating

Control Center
Administrative Offices

Figure 4-14 Open Multipurpose Area

4-23
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

the use of broken up wall panels or bulletin

boards. ir DOOB
Perimeter built-in benches should also be
considered for seating as well as for display
purposes.
Provide securable storage for tables, chairs and
supplies.
Projects Games Lounge
(6) Technical Requirements
(a) Illumination
Figure 4-15 Open Multipurpose Space Alternative Use
Level 70 ftc, work surfaces; 30
ftc, display areas Plans
Type fluorescent task; light track
for displays Walls tackable surface, vinyl or
Control local switch with dimmer cork covered
Floors sheet viny I or resin epoxy
(b) Power
Ceiling exposed structure
Outlets 1 every 12' of partition
Special clock outlet mtd 2' below (d) Colors
ceiling Walls off -white
(c) Plumbing Accents primary accent colors and
charcoal
Janitor's sink
(d) HVAC
Summer 78"DB; BS'WB; RH 50%
Winter 68<,-72°
Air changes 6 per hour
(e) Communications
P/A 1 station
Sound 1 speaker station; 3 head-
phone jacks mtd 30" above
floor
(f) Acoustics
Noise criteria PNC 35
Sound level 42 dB
Ave coef of absorption 0.30-0.40
Transmission (STC) +45 dB
(7) Interior Requirements
(a) Equipment
Storage for chairs and tables
12" shelves for supplies
(b) Furniture
Folding tables, stacking chairs, built-in
perimeter seating
(c) Finish Suggestions

4-24
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-4 SMALL GROUP ACTIVITIES (continued)

e. ENCLOSED MULTIPURPOSE AREA.

(1) Function. This space houses noisy (4) Relationships. These activities generate
activities and activities requiring acoustical more noise than any other and must not
privacy. These activities may include listening interfere with administrative offices or quiet
to records and tapes; taping combo practice, activities such as reading, writing, listening,
speakers or program presentations; participating conversing, phoning, meeting, or viewing
in programs or meetings; or conferring in television. However, this space should be near
private. the control center for distribution of instru-
ments.
(2) Participants. Up to 60 patrons listening
to combo practice sessions; up to 75 involved in Since this activity attracts onlookers, develop
private meetings. the entries to invite the casual passerby to stand
and watch the event before deciding to enter or
(3) Size. move on.
Overall (5) Design Considerations. The enclosed
multipurpose spaces require sufficient glazing
Small enclosed multipurpose area 150 SF
to allow surveillance of the activity inside by
Large enclosed multipurpose area 600 SF
staff personnel and passersby. The large space
Storage 10% of floor area must accommodate informal instruction as well
Space/Unit 20 SF per participant as small scale planned or spontaneous presenta-
8 SF per spectator tions with informal audiences.

control Center*

perimeter seating

Figure 4-16 Enclosed Multipurpose Area

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

These spaces must be soundproof. The HVAC

system should not act as a transmitter of noise
to other areas of the Center; sound baffles
should be used in the system to handle this
potential problem. Also, partition construction
systems should be designed to continue through
Meeting Film Jam Session
to roof construction to minimize sound
transmission over and through the walls.
Interior glazing should be designed to assist Figure 4-17 Enclosed Multipurpose Space Alternative
sound attenuation. Use Plans
Changes in level and material should define
platforms to accommodate viewers and players (b) Furniture
interchangeably. Built-in perimeter bench seat- Stacking chairs, folding tables
ing should be incorporated into the design.
(c) Finish Suggestions
Exterior windows are desirable.
Walls fabric or wood covered
(6) Technical Requirements acoustical panels
(a) Illumination Floors carpet
Ceiling exposed structure
Level 30 ftc
Type area fluorescent (d) Colors
Control local control with dimmer Walls off-white
(b) Power Accents cool and warm primary
1 every 12' of partition colors
Outlets
Special clock outlet mtd 2' below
ceiling
(c) HVAC
Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50%
Winter 680-720
Air changes 15 per hour
(d) Communications
P/A 1 station
Sound 1 speaker

(e) Acoustics
Noise criteria PNC 30
Sound level 50dB
Ave coef of absorption 0.30-0.40
Transmission (STC) +50-60 dB
Reverberation time 1.4-1.6
(f) Critical Dimensions
Ceiling height 15' to 20'.
Room ratio 1(H):1.25(W):1.60(L)
(7) Interior Requirements
(a) Equipment
Secure storage area for chairs and
equipment

4-26
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-4 SMALL GROUP ACTIVITIES (continued)

f. TELEPHONE LOUNGE.
(1) Function. This lounge houses a twenty- (4) Relationships. Locate the telephone
four-hour telephone facility for use by all lounge adjacent to and immediately accessible
personnel. Activities are generally limited to to the main entrance and the ITT office. The
telephoning, involving either short or prolonged telephone lounge should have access to the
conversation, and waiting for calls or for friends exterior for twenty-four-hour service, but
to complete calls. should be secured from the remainder of the
facility after hours.
(2) Participants. Individuals occasionally
accompanied by friends waiting; 5 to 15 (5) Design Considerations. Integrate several
people. telephones with seating to create a living room
(3) Size. atmosphere in facilities larger than 12,700 SF.
Telephone booths should be provided to
No. of accommodate private conversations. At least
Overall Lounge
Phones one phone booth should be planned to permit
12,700 SF Center 100 SF use by an individual in a wheelchair.
19,800 SF Center 200 SF The area should be planned to facilitate visual
27,800 SF Center 300 SF supervision of the activity both from inside and

directory counter
access

Control
Center

kiosk fsSski ZZ

Lobby i

zirar
IS
II
Public Toilets

Figure 4-18 Telephone Lounge

4-27
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - individual Space Criteria - January 1976

outside the building. Provide telephone booths,

storage for local and several out-of-state
directories and built-in seating. Telephone
booths should have washable wall surfaces so
that graffiti can be washed off periodically.
(6) Technical Requirements
(a) Illumination
Level 30 ftc, booths; 10 ftc,
lounges
Type direct fluorescent task,
warm white
Control switch at control desk
(b) Power
Outlets 1
Special clock outlet mtd 2' below
ceiling, visible from booths
(c) HVAC
Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50%
Winter 68°
Air changes 6 per hour
(d) Communications
Phones separate from Center's
phones
Sound 1 speaker
(e) Acoustics
Noise criteria PNC 30
Sound level 30 dB
Ave coef of absorption 0.40-0.50
Transmission (STC) +35 dB
(7) Interior Requirements
(a) Equipment
Phone booths as provided by Telephone
Company
(b) Furniture
Built-in lounge seating
(c) Finish Suggestions
Walls painted drywall
Floor carpet
Ceiling acoustical tile
(d) Colors
Walls primary colors
Accents white or black

4-28
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-4 SMALL GROUP ACTIVITIES (continued)

g. CARRELS.
(1) Function. Carrels provide a private (3) Size.
environment where individuals may pursue
All Centers 30 SF minimum
activities without interference from other
people or activities. These activities include 12,700 SF Centers 4, minimum number
reading, writing, listening to records and tapes, 19,800 SF Centers 8, minimum number
daydreaming, and conversing. These activities 27,800 SF Centers 12, minimum number
are usually individually oriented, introspective, (4) Relationships. Locate carrels to main-
and non-interactive. tain visual link to the center of the central
program area and provide the opportunity to
(2) Participants. Usually limited to individ-
overlook other activities.
uals. Occasionally two or more people convers-
ing privately. (5) Design Considerations. Carrels house

L Control Center
- soundproofing
folding writing surface
7^W^- chalkboard

Central Program Area

Figure 4-19 Carrels

4-29
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

both quiet and noisy activities and should Sound equipment, sound modules (coor-
therefore be enclosed and insulated for sound, dinate with using service)
accommodating the requirements of its highest (b) Furniture
potential use. Window cut-outs and entries Lounge chairs, writing surface
should be used to create views from the carrels;
(c) Finish Suggestions
these will also allow surveillance of the activity.
Walls fabric-covered acoustical
Provide chalkboards or washable wall coverings,
panels and chalkboards
suitable to drawing with felt tip pens to provide
Floors carpet
surfaces for graffiti. This device should be used
Ceilings acoustical tile
to create a desirable outlet for what is
otherwise considered to be a destructive (d) Color
personalization of space. Walls sandstone, soft gray, or
All speakers and sound system components charcoal
should be built-in and flush-mounted. Consid- Accents cool primary accent colors
eration should be given to procurement of
prefabricated "sound modules" currently avail-
able commercially through several manufac-
turers of library and school equipment.
(6) Technical Requirements
(a) Illumination
Level 30 ftc on tables
Type incandescent task
Control local switch with dimmer
(b) Power
Outlets 1 per carrel mtd at counter
height
(c) HVAC
Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50%
Winter 65•-68° 65
Air changes 15 per hour
(d) Communications
P/A 1 station per carrel
Sound 1 multi-channel selector and
headphone jack for each
carrel
(e) Acoustics
Noise criteria PNC 10-20
Sound level 20-30 dB
Ave coef of absorption 0.40-0.50
Transmission (STC) +50-60 dB
(f) Minimum Dimensions
5'-6" width
(7) Interior Requirements
(a) Equipment

4-30
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-4 SMALL GROUP ACTIVITIES (continued)

h. SPECIAL INTEREST AREA,

(1) Function. This space houses special (4) Relationships. Locate adjacent to and
interest programs such as classes, clubs, and immediately accessible to lobby and outside
coffeehouse activities so that they may and toilets. It must be designed to operate on
function at hours when the remainder of the hours independently of the remainder of the
facility is closed as well as when it is open. The Center.
activities include hobbies, such as coin collec- (5) Design Considerations. This space must
ting, ski club, etc.; wives' club meetings; be able to accommodate a complete change in
coffeehouse activities such as rap sessions; small decor to correspond with unique programs.
group entertainment presentations; and snack These activities are independent of other Center
preparation and service. activities and are potentially noisy. The area
(2) Participants. Small groups of two to should be completely partitioned and insulated
sixty; meetings of from twenty to sixty. for sound.
Special interest programs require a storage area
(3) Size.
and one independent program office for a
19,800 SF & 27,800 SF Centers full-time staff member. The office should be
Meetings Office Storage adjacent to the special interest room and have
1000 SF 100 SF 100 SF control of the storage room.

tack surface - I—Office

counter—i
i- adjustable shelves

Public Toilets

movable dance
floor
rolling screen

Lobby

L^
Figure 4-20 Special Interest Area

4-31
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

These activities do not require visual access to

the outside.
A counter should be provided for secure
placement of turntables, tapes and amplifier
equipment, and separate internal sound and
P/A system to serve only the special interest
area. Meeting Hobbies Coffee House
(6) Technical Requirements
(a) Illumination Figure 4-21 Special Interest Area Alternative Use
Plans
Level 30 ftc
Type incandescent light track plates, stereo cabinets and equipment -
Control local switch with dimmer supplied by using service; service coun-
(b) Power ter with securable storage cabinets

Outlets 1 every 12' wall space, on (b) Furniture

service counter Built-in lounge seating; movable lounge
Special clock outlet mtd 2' below seating; stackable chairs and tables;
ceiling movable presentation platform
ceiling outlets use extra (c) Finish Suggestions
circuit of light track
Walls painted drywall with vinyl
(c) Plumbing
covered tack surfaces and
Double sink picture railing
Coffee and espresso makers Floor carpet
Ceiling exposed structure
(d) HVAC
Summer 78°DB; 68°WB; RH 50% (d) Colors
Winter 68° Walls off -white
Air changes 15 per hour Accents primary accent colors
(e) Communications
P/A 1 speaker station at service
counter and office
Phones desk set in office
Sound 3 speaker stations; head-
phone jacks every 6'; sep-
arate system from Center's
console system provided by
using service; microphone
jacks spaced as required by
using service
(f) Acoustics
Noise criteria PNC 30
Sound level 42 dB
Ave coef of absorption 0.30-0.40
Transmission (STC) +50-60 dB

(7) Interior Requirements

(a) Equipment
Espresso machine; popcorn maker; hot

4-32
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

Figure 4-22 Administrative Activities

4-33
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-5 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIVITIES

a. CONTROL CENTER.
(1) Function. The control center serves as (3) Size.
the general information office, the equipment Overall Counter Storage
storage and distribution point, the area from
12,700 SF Center 150 SF 250 SF
which the recreation staff maintain visual
19,800 SF Center 300 SF 350 SF
control over the activities of the facility and
27,800 SF Center 400 SF 400 SF
operate the P/A system, TV and record/tape
control. (4) Relationships. The control center should
be adjacent to and visible from the entrance
The activities involve the staff conversing with lobby and administrative offices.
users, distributing equipment, observing other
activities and participants, operating the P/A It should be near the central program area,
and sound system, and coat checking during pantry and telephones, all activities requiring
large group activities. distribution of equipment, public toilets and
janitor's closet.
(2) Participants. A varying number of
patrons waiting to be served and one to three (5) Design Considerations. Primary activities
staff members. are oriented to the interior of the building and

storage cabinets
with shelves

Public Toilets

ITT
roll down
security screens
Administrative Offices counter with
storage

Refreshment
Area
Active Games

Small Group
Activities
Lounge
1
—active game storage

Central Program Space

Figure 4-23 Control Center

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

do not require exposure to the outside or (b) Furniture

natural light. Built-in counter, stools, worktables
Provide a counter in view of the main desk for (c) Finish Suggestions
permanently mounted P/A system, record and
Painted or vinyl-covered drywall
tape players with storage for records and tapes.
Provide an additional counter for distribution (d) Colors
of supplies and equipment. This distribution Walls primary accent colors
counter must accommodate a stool and knee Accents white or black
space for comfortable seating and a counter
(e) Storage Requirements
pass-through for heavy equipment.
Since both public and staff activities focus on The following represents an example of
this counter, arrange all equipment and storage typical control center storage require-
areas to facilitate counter accessibility. ments; actual requirements must be
coordinated with using service:
Centers of 12,700 SF or less should include a
worktable for preparation of posters, etc. Books and directories
Headphones
In addition to the partitioned securable storage
Letter writing supplies
rooms, the entire area including service
Typewriters
counters must also be securable.
Table games
(6) Technical Requirements Tape recorders
(a) Illumination Pool and pingpong equipment
Projectors
Level 40 ftc on counter surface Microphones
Type incandescent direct task Prop preparation equipment
Control local switch
Tools
(b) Power Broken equipment
Coat storage - 300 people
Outlets 1 per 12'
Special clock outlet mtd 2' below Music equipment:
ceiling above counter 2 Drum sets complete with cymbals
(c) HVAC 2 Bongo drums
1 Conga drum
Summer 78"DB; 65°WB; RH 50% 6 Electric guitars
Winter 65°-68° 2 Electric bass guitars
Air changes 6 per hour 6 Electric guitar amplifiers w/microphones
(d) Communications 2 Electric bass guitar amplifiers
1 Trumpet
p/A main station
1 Alto saxophone
Phones desk set
2 Banjos
Sound main station
6 Acoustical guitars
(e) Acoustics 1 Electric organ
Noise criteria PNC 30 1 Accordian
Sound level 0.20-0.30 1 Autoharp
Ave coef of absorption +43 dB Assorted number of rhythm instru-
Impact noise rating +5 ments
Reeds, drumsticks, replacement strings
(7) Interior Requirements Miscellaneous equipment
(a) Equipment
P/A system console
Record/tape system console

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-5 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIVITIES (continued)

b. ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES.
(1) Function. The administrative offices (3) Size.
provide work and conference space for Overall Office Meeting Work Storage
Recreation Center staff. The activities include
12,700 SF Center 300 100 - 40
working individually, consulting, meeting,
19,800 SF Center 300 100 100 50
lounging, preparing graphics and indirectly
27,800 SF Center 500 125 150 75
monitoring Center activities.
Space/Unit 100 SF per office + central work area
(2) Participants. Three to five staff members storage = 10% of floor area
who, by training and profession, rely heavily on
verbal communication with their associates and (4) Relationships. The administrative offices
the people they serve. Other participants should be adjacent to and immediately
include enlisted personnel and volunteer per- accessible to the control center, information
sonnel. tour and travel, and the lobby.

Central Program Entrance

Space

Control Center
ITT
Work Area
Lobby

Office

Figure 4-24 Administrative Offices

4-36
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

Internally, the offices should surround a central (c) Plumbing

work and meeting area; the storage areas and W.C.
powder room should be adjacent to and Lavatory
immediately accessible to the offices and work
area. The office area should be entered directly (d) HVAC
from the transitional area through the central Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50%
work area. Winter 68°-72°
Air changes 8 per hour
(5) Design Considerations. An open plan
layout should be used to enhance the ease of (e) Communications
communication throughout the area. Individual PIA 1 station
work areas should be separated from each other Phones 1 at each desk
by storage and files and should focus on a Sound 1 speaker
common area which serves as a lounge or
informal conference room. (f) Acoustics

A staff workroom should be included in Noise criteria PNC 30-40

facilities larger than 12,700 SF as additional Sound level 34-37 dB
space becomes available for preparation of Ave coef of absorption 0.30-0.40
visual aids, posters, charts, etc. This area Transmission (STC) +43 dB
requires layout table space as well as storage or (7) Interior Requirements
access to storage for art supplies.
(a) Equipment
The area must have a clearly defined public Office machines, Xerox, duplication
entrance, must be securable and should be (provided by using service)
served by a private staff lavatory.
(b) Furnishings
Monitoring of adjacent activities from the
off ices should be facilitated. Provide window in Desks and chairs, file cabinets, work
principal office areas for outside view and tables, lounge chairs, sofa
natural light. Orient glass to avoid glare from (c) Finish Suggestions
morning and afternoon sun.
Walls painted drywall
The administrative office must accommodate a Floors carpet
desk, chair, files, and visitors' seating for each Ceilings acoustical tile
full-time staff member. The lounge area must
accommodate the placement of comfortable (d) Colors
chairs, a sofa, and coffee table. Walls off -white
Storage must provide for staff member coats Accents cool primary accent colors
and personal effects as well as general office
supplies.
(6) Technical Requirements
(a) Illumination
Level 70 ftc, work surface; 30 ftc,
lavs
Type fluorescent; incandescent in
mtg areas
Control local switched

(b) Power
Outlets 1 per wall in each office
Special clock outlet in central area

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-5 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIVITIES (continued)

c. INFORMATION TOUR &TRAVEL (ITT).
(1) Function. ITT houses the following (4) Relationships. All ITT areas should be
activities: ticket dispensing, consulting with adjacent to and immediately accessible to lobby
staff, planning trips, looking at maps, making and telephones.
reservations, viewing rearview projection pres- In facilities of 12,700 SF or less, ITT is
entations and conversing in small groups. consolidated with the control center.
(2) Participants. One or two staff members (5) Design Considerations. In facilities larger
and a variable number of people reading than 12,700 SF, the ITT area is treated as a
available information or seeking assistance. lounge and office associated with, but separate
(3) Size. from, administrative offices. These offices offer
Counter Office Lounge the only consolidated recreation information
Overall
and travel services available for the entire
12,700 SF Center 50 SF - installation. They require securable administra-
19,800 SF Center 50 SF - 60 SF tive areas and service counter areas which can
27,800 SF Center 50 SF 100 SF 60 SF accommodate, as a minimum, the following:
Space/Unit 100 SF per office two file cabinets, a safe, a desk and chair, a
15 SF per user at lounge/counter counter stool, secure storage of audio-visual

storage cabinet
Telephone
Lounge

Administrative Offices

Ö
Control Center
information kiosk

Figure 4-25 Information, Tour & Travel

4-38
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

display equipment, an adding machine, and stool, typewriter stand,

typewriter stand. (c) Finish Suggestions
A lounge area adjacent to the administrative Walls painted drywall
counter is required in the ITT office, which Floors carpet
should be open to the transitional area and will Ceiling acoustical tile
accommodate the following: kiosks, literature
racks, poster displays, and serve as a waiting (d) Colors
area for patrons seeking the services of ITT Walls warm primary colors
staff. Accents white, black or charcoal
All ITT areas should be planned to allow casual
observation of magazines and posters without
requiring verbal contact with a staff member.
(6) Technical Requirements
(a) Illumination
Level 30 ftc, counter; 10 ftc,
lounge
Type incandescent task
Control local, switch behind counter
(b) Power
Outlets 1 every 12'
Special 1 per kiosk
(c) HVAC
Summer 78°DB; 65°\NB; RH 50%
Winter 68°
Air changes 10 per hour
(d) Communications
P/A 1 station in lounge
Phones desk set - 1 class "A" line
Sound 1 speaker station in lounge
(e) Acoustics
Noise criteria PNC 30-40
Sound level 42 dB
Ave coef of absorption 0.30-0.40
Transmission (STC) +40dB
(7) Interior Requirements
(a) Equipment
2securable file cabinets; safe, securable
storage of audio-visual display equip-
ment including rear projection slide
viewers and screens; adding machines.
Provisions for teletype may be required,
(b) Furniture
Lounge chairs, stools behind counter,
built-in counter, desk and chair, counter

4-39
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

Figure 4-26 Refreshment Activities

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-6 REFRESHMENT ACTIVITIES

a. VENDING AREA.
(1) Function. The vending area houses be located near the lobby so that customers can
machines which dispense food and electric visit the Recreation Center for the sole purpose
games which are operated by AAFES. Activities of obtaining snacks and beverages. However,
include purchasing and consuming snack meals the customer should be able to see other
from permanent vending facilities; informally recreation activities taking place so that interest
conversing and gaming. may be aroused. The snack area should be
visible and directly accessible from the central
(2) Participants. 28 to 38 people sitting and program area.
eating; varying numbers using the electric game
machines. Functionally, the vending area should be near
the toilet rooms and immediately off a service
(3) Size. area to permit delivery of material and trash
Overall Dining Vending Game removal.
12,700 SF Center 500 200 SF 150 SF The vending area should be remote from the
19,800 SF Center 1,075 325 SF 250 SF active game area to reduce food and drink
27,800 SF Center Either Snack Bar or Amuse- damage to equipment.
ment Center Internally, the vending machine area should
Space/Unit 15 SF per participant seated face the dining area and the game area to
+ machine area permit consumption at both tables and at
(4) Relationships. The vending area should games.

Public Toilets

Lobby
vending machines

electric games

Central Program Space

Terrace

Figure 4-27 Vending Area

4-41
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

P/A 1 station
(5) Design Considerations. The eating area
of this space should not be merely utilitarian. Its (f) Acoustics
atmosphere should provide opportunities for Noise criteria PNC 35-45
relaxed small group interaction over food. The Sound level 42-52 dB
machine area should be planned to minimize Ave coef of absorption 0.30-0.40
traffic and noise conflicts with the eating area. Transmission (STC) +43 dB
Orient the eating area to take advantage of
(g) Critical Dimensions
natural light and exterior views.
12,700 SF Centers = 28'-0" x 30'-0"
HQ AAFES Engineering Division should be
19,800 SF Centers = 32'-6" x 35'-0"
requested to participate in the coordination of
food service activities during the preliminary or (7) Interior Requirements
concept stage of planning. Requests for (a) Equipment
coordination should be directed to HQ AAFES,
See diagram (coordinate with AFFES)
Attn: EN-A, Dallas, Texas 75222. AAFES will
provide detailed Furniture and Food Equip- (b) Furniture
ment layouts with an equipment list stating See diagram (coordinate with AAFES)
power and utility requirements. General guid-
ance on technical requirements and interior (c) Finish Suggestions
requirements follows. Walls vinyl covered drywall
Floors vinyl covered or epoxy resin
(6) Technical Requirements
Ceiling exposed structure or acous-
(a) Illumination tical tile
Level 30 ftc (d) Colors
Type incandescent; direct over
machines, indirect over Walls off -white
Accent cool and warm primary
tables
Control local switch with dimmer colors

(b) Power
Outlets 1 per wall; 1 per vending
machine and game machine;
each machine @ 115v 60c
1PH
Special clock outlet mtd 2' below
ceiling
Total electric load
12,700 SF Centers = 115 amps
19,800 SF Centers = 165 amps
(coordinate with AAFES)
(c) Plumbing
Slop sink in storage area
Cold water line to vending machine
(coordinate with AAFES)

(d) HVAC
Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50%
Winter 65°-70°
Air changes 20 per hour
(e) Communications

4-42
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

FURNITURE & EQUIPMENT SCHEDULE - 12,700 SF CENTER

Utility Requirements
1. Trash Receptacle
2. Dining Table
3. Dining Table
4. Chairs
5. Coin/BillChanger
6. Vending Machine/Candy
7. Vending Machine/Coffee CW
8. Vending Machine/All-Purpose
9. Vending Machine/Cold Drinks CW
10. Vending Machine/Multi-Product
11. Condiment Unit
12. Microwave Oven
13. Skill Machines (2)
14. Pinball Machines (4)
15. Juke Box
CODE: E = Electricity
CW =Cold Water
Figure 4-28 Vending Area - 12,700 SF Center Furniture & Equipment Layout

FURNITURE & EQUIPMENT SCHEDULE - 19,800 SF CENTER

Utility Requirements
1. Trash Receptacle
2. Dining Table
3. Dining Table
4. Chairs
5. Coin/BillChanger E
6. Vending Machine/Candy E
7. Vending Machine/All-Purpose (2) E
8. Vending Machine/Coffee E CW
9. Vending Machine/Cold Drink E CW
10. Vending Machine/Multi-Product E
11. Condiment Unit E
12. Microwave Ovens (2) E
13. Skill Machines (3) E
14. Pinball Machines (7) E
15. Juke Box E
CO DE: E = Electricity
CW =Cold Water
Figure 4-29 Vending Area - 19,800 SF Center Furniture & Equipment Layout

4-43
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-6 REFRESHMENT ACTIVITIES (continued)

b. SNACK BAR.
(1) Function. The snack bar provides full (4) Relationships. The snack bar should be
food services and electric games where there are adjacent to and immediately accessible from
no other permanent exchange facilities available the lobby. All other areas should be able to be
in the immediate area; operated by AAFES. secured from the snack bar to permit its
Activities include purchasing and consuming operation during times when the Center is
food and drink, conversing, and playing closed.
electrically operated games. The snack bar should be near the toilet rooms
and immediately adjacent to the service court
(2) Participants. 84 patrons and staff in to permit deliveries and trash removal.
small groups of one to six.
The snack bar should also be adjacent to the
terrace area to accommodate outdoor dining,
(3) Size.
and located away from the active game area.
27,800 SF Centers
Internally, the AAFES game area should be
Dining Serving Kitchen Games adjacent to the snack bar area to allow
1,400 SF 700 SF 1,000 SF 350 SF consumption of food and drink while playing
Space/Unit 12 SF per diner games.

refrigerator storage— i—Dining

i Public Toilets

Employees-

Service Court

Figure 4-30 Snack Bar

4-44
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

(5) Design Considerations. The snack bar is (b) Power

the second largest activity in size in the Outlets 1 per wall in dining area; 1
Recreation Center, and although it is an per game
administratively and physically independent see diagram for kitchen and
section except at the lobby, the snack bar serving area
should be visually related to other activities. Special clock outlet 2' below ceiling
Eating areas defined by transparent partitions above serving line
should overlook the central program area and Total electric load
the terrace. Internally, the areas should be 120/208v 3o4 wire
separated by a decorative and booth-height Capacity 480 amps minimum (coor-
screen wall. Windows should be maximized dinate with AAFES)
within parameters set for energy conservation (c) Plumbing
to provide a view to the outside. In addition, a See diagram (coordinate with AAFES)
variety of shaded and sunny eating areas, both
(d) HVAC
inside and outside, should be created.
Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50%
Cross traffic through the dining area should be Winter 65o-70° dining area; 66°
minimized and directed along clearly defined kitchen
paths. Air changes 15 per hour, dining area
A mixed seating arrangement consisting of 25 per hour, kitchen
two-and four-place rectangular tables, four- (e) Communications
place booths, and six-place round tables should PIA 1 station
be provided to accommodate varied sizes of Telephone 1 in office area
customer groups and add interest and informal- Sound none
ity to the dining area. (f) Acoustics
HQ AAFES Engineering Division should be Public Kitchen
requested to participate in the coordination of Noise criteria PNC 35 PNC 45
food service activities during the preliminary or Sound level 38 dB 52 dB
concept stage of planning. Requests for Ave coef of absorp 0.30 0.25-0.40
coordination should be directed to HQ Transmission (STC)+43 dB +43 dB
AAFES, Attn EN-A, Dallas, Texas 75222. (g) Critical Dimensions
AAFES will provide detailed Furniture and See diagram (coordinate with AAFES)
Food Equipment layouts with an equipment
list stating power and utility requirements. (7) Interior Requirements
General guidance on technical requirements and (a) Equipment
interior requirements follows. See diagram (coordinate with AAFES)
(6) Technical Requirements (b) Furniture
(a) Illumination See diagram (coordinate with AAFES)
Level 30 ftc game, dining, kitchen (c) Finish Suggestions
areas Walls vinyl covered drywall,
70 ftc serving area dining area
Type incandescent; direct in serv- Floors sheet vinyl or epoxy resin in
ing lines, indirect in dining dining area; impervious
areas flooring in kitchen/serving
fluorescent; indirect in area
kitchen and game area Ceiling exposed structure
provide sanitary fixtures in (d) Colors
kitchen and serving line Walls off-white
Control local switching Accents warm primary colors
dimmer control in dining
area

4-45
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

FURNITURE ft EQUIPMENT SCHEDULE - SNACK BAR XI. UpdraR Exhaust Unit

S3. Toaster, 4 alle*

St. Ruch-In Refrigerator
HA. Reach-In Refrigerator

Tmh Recaatadi MA. l-(ot Plat*

Dining Table 87. Cotd Food Make-Up Table (wfcversholQ
Dining Table SS. Work Table
SSA. Work Tabla

40. Storage Rack

41. Slkar
42. Vegetable Sit* w/erasto dispoiar
•S. Storaga Cabinat
44. Walk-in Dual Tamp Bo«
41. Rack Dolly
«a. Dish Dolly
47A. Claan Dish Tabla
Tray I
Refrigerated Casa Lina «•A. Soiled Dish Tabla
Hot Food Unit (arbnaoi* guard) SO. Busing Cart
■2. Cream Dispenser
Lewerator Stand (drinking glasses) vtfir
. Paper Cup OiipaMT stand
. Cannad ftaer Cooler (w/12* pass-through
Serene* Dispenser Stand
Dispenser Stand •7. Storage Shelving
Paitry Casa M. Water Tanks (for Item 22, wamderfloer c
Lewerator Stand (lor papar «an, china 0 71. PortaMa Trash RecapUda
Um Dispenser Stani, Dual Drip Pans 7S. Swivel Chair
Cashier stand 74. Writing Desk
Tray Slide 71. Piling Cabinet
Cask Register 7t. Safe
ColYaa Urn (Dual Dispenser) 75. Wall Lockers
71. Waste Disposer

S1. Pressure Fryer

2S. lea Pi spans a r

St. lea Cubelat Machine

SO. Griddle

Figure 4-31 Snack Bar Furniture & Equipment Layout

4-46
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-6 REFRESHMENT ACTIVITIES (continued)

c. AMUSEMENT CENTERS.
(1) Function. Amusement centers provide (4) Relationships. Locate the amusement
limited food and beverage service with a large center adjacent to and immediately accessible
area for coin operated skill and pinball to the lobby and terrace and near toilet rooms.
machines where a permanent exchange food All other areas should be secured from the
facility is, or will be, available in the immediate amusement center after the Recreation Center
area on installations without a training mission. closes. Locate the amusement center away from
Activities include consuming food and drinks - the active game area.
primarily pizza and beer - and playing games. Amusement centers differ from snack bars in
(2) Participants. Small groups of people that there is a limited menu, usually beer and
from 1 to 6 totaling approximately 100-150 pizza, which requires a smaller dining area and
people. preparation space and an increase in the game
area.
(3) Size.
(5) Design Considerations. The amusement
Overall
center is the second largest activity in area in
27,800 SF Center the Recreation Center, and although it is an
Game area Dining area Preparation
administratively and physically independent
1,500 SF 1,000 SF 700 SF section except at the lobby, the amusement
Space/Unit 12 SF per diner center should be visually related to other

-Bar
Game Area—i Dining—I -Kitchen

refrigeration

- storage

Central Program Area

Figure 4-32 Amusement Center

4-47
Design Guide: Recreation Centers • Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

activities. Eating areas defined by transparent (c) Plumbing

partitions should overlook the central program See diagram (coordinate with AAFES)
area and terrace. Internally the areas should be
separated by a decorative and booth-height (d) HVAC
screen wall. Windows should be maximized Summer 78°DB; 65°WB; RH 50%
within energy conservation limits, to provide a Winter 65°-70° dining area; 66°
view to the outside. In addition, a variety of kitchen
shaded and sunny eating areas, both inside and Air changes 15 per hour, dining area
outside, should be created. 25 per hour, kitchen
Cross traffic through the dining area should be (e) Communications
minimized and directed along clearly defined Public Kitchen
paths. Noise criteria PNC 35 PNC 45
HQ AAFES Engineering Division should be Sound level 38 dB 52 dB
requested to participate in the coordination of Ave coef of absorp 0.30 0.25-0.40
food service activities during the preliminary or Transmission (STC)+43 dB +43 dB
concept stages of planning. Requests for
(f) Critical Dimensions
coordination should be directed to HQ AAFES,
Attn: EN-A, Dallas, Texas 75222. See diagram (coordinate with AAFES)
AAFES will provide detailed Furniture and (7) Interior Requirements
Food Equipment layouts with an equipment (a) Equipment
list stating power and utility requirements.
See diagram (coordinate with AAFES)
General guidance on technical requirements and
interior requirements follows. (b) Furniture
(6) Technical Requirements See diagram (coordinate with AAFES)
(a) Illumination
(c) Finish Suggestions
Level 30 ftc, dining and kitchen
Walls vinyl covered drywall,
areas
50 ftc, game area dining area
70 ftc, serving area Floors sheet vinyl or epoxy resin in
Type incandescent; direct in serv- dining area; impervious floor-
ing lines, indirect in dining ing in kitchen/serving area
area Ceiling exposed structure
fluorescent; indirect in (d) Colors
kitchen and game area
Walls off-white
provide sanitary fixtures in
Accents warm primary colors
kitchen and serving line
Control local switch; dimmer control
in dining area
(b) Power
Outlets 1 per wall in dining area; 1
per game
see diagram for kitchen and
serving areas
Special clock outlet 2' below ceil-
ing, above serving line
Total electric load
120/208v 30, 4 wire
Capacity 480 amps minimum (coor-
dinate with AAFES)

4-48
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

° ^iwiiiiMin w*
nZZA-IEER BAR Q

□
□
X

FURNITURE & EQUIPMENT SCHEDULE - AMUSEMENT CENTER

Dining Room & Amusement Utility Pizza/Beer Bar Equipment: Utility

Equipment: Requirements Requirements
A Trash Receptacle 9. Walk-In Refrigerated Box E D
B Dining Table 10. Noncarbonated Drink Dispenser E CW
C Chairs 11. Ice-Maker/Dispenser E CW
D Booths 12. Cash Register E
E Bar Stools 13. Coffee Brewer E
F Coin/Bill Changer E 14. Bar Counter
G Skill Machines (3) E 15. Service Stand
H Pinball Machines (9) E 16. Filler Top w/12 paper cup dispensers
I Vending Machine/Candy E 17. Filler Top w/8 paper cup dispensers
J Vending Machine/Cigarettes E 18. Service Stand
K Pool Tables (4) 19. Urn Stand
L Cue Rack 20. Storage Shelving
M Juke Box E 21. Safe
22. Office Table
Pizza/Beer Bar Equipment: 23. Swivel Chair
24. Wall Lockers
1. Pizza Oven
2. Reach-In Refrigerator D
CODE: E = Electricity
3. Display Refrigerator D
CW = Cold Water
4. Draft Beer Dispenser
HW = Hot Water
5. Refrigerated Pizza Make-Up Unit E D
D = Drain
6. Pass-Through Shelving Counter
7. 3 Compartment Sink E CW HW
(w/immersion heater) E
Microwave Oven
Figure 4-33 Amusement Center Furniture & Equipment Layout

4-49
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-7 SERVICE ACTIVITIES

a. MAINTENANCE AREAS.
(1) Function. To house those activities that (6) Technical Requirements
comprise the physical maintenance of the (a) Illumination
Recreation Center. The activities consist of
Level 10 ftc
delivering supplies and equipment, removing
Type incandescent utility fixtures
trash, maintaining plumbing, mechanical equip-
Control local switching
ment, parking and maintaining the landscape.
(b) Power
(2) Participants. Staff, maintenance and
delivery personnel and patrons. Outlets 1
(c) Plumbing
(3) Size. As required; mechanical rooms to
be sized to meet the needs of the equipment As required
housed. (d) HVAC
Loading docks 80 SF minimum Summer none
Service area for kitchen 100 SF minimum Winter 60°
Air changes 0
(4) Relationships. Utilities should be lo-
cated near the platform and kitchen loading (e) Communications
areas and common driveway to centralize None
service-related activities and to maximize
efficiency of service to the building. Trash (f) Acoustics
removal for the various activities should occur None
at the appropriate loading area. (g) Critical Dimensions
(5) Design Considerations. Mechanical As required
equipment rooms will be enclosed, securable,
(7) Interior Requirements
and entered only from outside the building.
(a) Finishes
Loading entrances are required at the platform,
food preparation area, and mechanical equip- Bare structure
ment room to facilitate maintenance activities
and the loading and unloading of supplies.
Siting considerations based on operational
requirements will govern the placement of
dumpsters for garbage collection. The location
and orientation of the dumpster will be
compatible with the design characteristics of
the container and the loading vehicle, including
turning and maneuvering radius requirements.
Dumpsters should be located at the rear of a
building, within a service area, or where they
can be adequately screened with planting or
fencing.
The final configuration and size of the
mechanical equipment room should conform to
an appropriate arrangement of the equipment
actually selected. See illustrative building plans
for utility requirements specifically related to
each size facility.

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-7 SERVICE ACTIVITIES (continued)

b. PUBLIC TOILETS.
(1) Function. To house personal hygiene All fixtures shall be easy to maintain and
activities in a private and sanitary manner. operate, and will be equipped with water saving
valves. Water closets shall be wall-hung and
(2) Participants A variable number of staff,
enclosed in ceiling mounted metal enclosures;
patrons, and patrons' guests. valves will be mounted 39" above floor to
(3) Size. The toilet areas will be sized to minimize damage from kicking. Lavatories shall
house the number of fixtures required by DOD be enameled cast iron and be built into a
4270.1-M and TM 5-810-5, based on the counter. Urinals shall be wall-hung and enclosed
aggregate number of occupants for which the with metal screens. All accessories and fittings
Center is designed. This figure is derived from will be tamper-proof.
the maximum number of patrons that the
Finishes should be impervious to water and
Center can accommodate, who are engaged
easy to maintain.
concurrently in various activities in different
spaces including central program, small group, (6) Technical Requirements
refreshment, special interest, and administrative (a) Illumination
areas.
Level 30 ftc; mirrors 50 ftc
The ratio of fixtures for men and women Type direct fluorescent
should be developed by the using agency Control switch at control desk
according to installation population factors
(b) Power
such as the potential number of female military
and civilian personnel, and use patterns of the Outlets 1 per wall
Center such as the potential number of female 1 at lavatories mtd at
visitors. counter height
(c) Plumbing
Approximate overall sizes
As required for fixtures
12,700 SF Center 450 SF
19,800 SF Center 600 SF (d) HVAC
27,800 SF Center 720 SF Summer 78°DB; 65"WB; RH 50%
Winter 68°
(4) Relationships. The public toilet area Air changes 20 per hour
should be adjacent to the lobby area and near (e) Communications
the control center, AAFES refreshment and
game area, and the special interest area. There P/A 1 speaker station
should also be easy access from ITT and the Sound 1 speaker station
telephone lounge. The entrance to the toilet (f) Acoustics
areas should be visible from the control center.
Noise criteria PNC 40-50
(5) Design Considerations. To facilitate the Appropriate sound level 47-56 dB
use of public toilets when the Center is partially Ave coef of absorption 0.50
opened (e.g., special interest, ITT, refreshment Transmission (STC) +50
areas), they should be designed in conjunction
(g) Critical Dimensions
with the entry/lobby.
WC stall 2'-8" x 5'-0"
The interiors should be laid out with vestibules
Aisle 5'-0"
to provide privacy. In the women's room this
vestibule should be developed as a small seating (7) Interior Requirements
lounge. (a) Equipment
A minimum of one fixture in each area will be Paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers,
accessible by the physically handicapped. toilet paper holders, mirrors, trash

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

receptacles, feminine napkin dispensers

and receptacles, plumbing fixtures as
required
(b) Furniture
Built-in lounge seats in vestibule areas
(c) Finish Suggestions
Walls epoxy painted drywall or
exposed glazed structural
tile
Floors ceramic tile or epoxy resin
Ceiling acoustical tile
(d) Colors
Walls off -white
Floors warm accent colors
Accents cool and warm primary
colors

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

Figure 4-34 Outdoor Activities

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-8 OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

a. TERRACE.
(1) Function. The terrace provides space for (4) Relationships. The terrace should be
recreation activities that may occur outside the located adjacent to the central program area
building during clement weather. Activities and the refreshment area so that it can be used
include dining, drinking, barbecuing, rap in conjunction with the other activities taking
sessions, presentations, conversing, playing place or as an overflow area.
horseshoes, shuffleboard, dancing, etc. The terrace should also be near the pantry in
(2) Participants. Small groups of 1-6 people, order that food may be prepared for barbecues
totaling up to 100 spectators and participants. and moved easily to the terrace for cooking.
Terraces should be oriented to take advantage
(3) Size.
of the sun and natural shade to gain maximum
Overall use during the year.
12,700 SF Center 3,000 SF minimum
19,800 SF Center 3,600 SF minimum (5) Design Considerations. The terrace
27,800 SF Center 4,200 SF minimum should include a stepped platform to permit

Figure 4-35 Terrace

4-54
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

outdoor presentations to occur, with terraced

areas for seating and tables, and a covered area
for shade during the wann months.
Active game areas such as shuffleboard should
be provided approximately 15 feet away from
the building and oriented away from any large
glass areas. Also, they should be located on a
lower level so that the building is protected by
the steps.
Provision should also be made for the
installation of barbecue grills.
Appropriate landscaping and planting should be
used to define areas and enhance their
character.
(6) Technical Requirements
(a) Illumination
Level 10 ftc
Type waterproof incandescent
Control local switch
(b) Power
Outlets 2 waterproof receptacles
(c) Plumbing
Hose bibb
(d) Communications
P/A 1 station
Sound 1 station, controlled from
interior of central program
area
(7) Exterior Requirements
(a) Furniture
Built-in benches
(b) Finish Suggestions
Brick or stone pavers

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-8 OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES (continued)

b. ENTRY COURT.
(1) Function. The entry court serves to (4) Relationships. The entry court should
organize pedestrian entry into the building, be connected to the pedestrian circulation
provide a visual focus to the Center from the system of the installation and the parking lot.
surrounding area, and identify the Center. In severe climates, consideration should be
Activities include entering and exiting the given to a covered connection to the drop-off
Center, with small scattered groups informally area in the parking lot. The entry court should
conversing. lead to the building entry and telephone
lounge.
(2) Participants. Varying in number from 1
to 500. The entry should be separated from the service
court.
(3) Size.
Overall (5) Design Considerations. The entry court,
12,700 SF Center 200 SF minimum to a great extent, provides the visual identity of
19,800 SF Center 250 SF minimum the Center and should have suitable graphics
27,800 SF Center 300 SF minimum and identifying symbols. The entry court

information kiosk

Lobby

Telephone
Lounge

Figure 4-36 Entry Court

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

should focus pedestrian movement into the

Center while providing areas for small groups to
converse when leaving without interfering with
traffic.
Landscaping and planting should be provided to
develop a pleasant and attractive entrance to
the Center. Care should be taken not to obscure
vision into the Center from the exterior or into
the parking lot from the entry court.

(6) Technical Requirements

(a) Illumination
Level 5 ftc
Type waterproof incandescent,
area
Control automatic time switch at
control desk
(b) Power
Outlets 1 waterproof receptacle
(c) Plumbing
Hose bibb
(d) Communications
P/A 1 speaker station
Sound 1 speaker station
(7) Exterior Requirements
(a) Equipment
Center identification sign
Announcement board
(b) Furniture
Built-in seating
(c) Finish Suggestions
Brick or stone pavers

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Individual Space Criteria - January 1976

4-8 OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES (continued)

c. PARKING.
(1) Function. This area serves to store of pedestrians. Parking provisions for the
vehicles of users and recreation services; for physically handicapped shall be provided
occasional use as a program space to exhibit nearest their trip designation. The design
antique or custom cars, or motorcycle events. features shall include depressed curbs, ramps,
Activities center around driving and parking paved walkways and special parking stalls to
vehicles and walking to and from the Center. accommodate the operation of wheel chairs
from either side of the parked vehicle. Care in
(2) participants. Small groups of 1-6 people
planning must be exercised so that individuals
totaling approximately 400 people.
in wheel chairs and persons using braces and
(3) Size. Non-organization vehicles: Cur- crutches are not compelled to wheel or walk
rently, parking must be provided for 2% of the behind parked vehicles.
enlisted population served; as outlined in DOD
Planting in medians and large islands should be
Manual 4270.1-M. If an analysis of parking
provided to screen and alleviate the bleak effect
requirements demonstrates that the following
of broad expanses of paving, to help identify
are inadequate, then a space exception with
the traffic and parking patterns visually, and to
appropriate justifications should be submitted
provide an aesthetic balance between these
through command channels for approval.
areas and the building.
Overall No. of Cars Area Recognition should be made of the growing
demand of bicycle usage at Recreation Centers.
12,700 SF Center 40 12,600 SF
Coordination is required with the using service
19,800 SF Center 80 25,200 SF
to determine the magnitude of traffic flow and
27,800 SF Center 100 31,500 SF
to anticipate needs for bicycle facilities. If
provisions for bicycles are justified and parking in
Space/Unit 315 SF per car
needs have been established by the using
(4) Relationships. The parking area should service, bicycle racks shall be provided near the
be adjacent to the entry court and connect to door, of the trip destination, well away from
the service drive to minimize paving require- any vehicular traffic congestion and parking.
ments. Walking distance from a parked car to
Provide facilities for motorcycle parking in
the entrance should not exceed 300 feet. Care
coordination with the using service.
should be taken to minimize mixing of service
traffic with visitor traffic. (6) Technical Requirements
(5) Design Considerations. Parking areas (a) Illumination
should be designed for easy entrance and exit, Level 5 ftc
and shall provide 90 degree parking whenever Type pole mounted long-life
practicable. quartz tubes
Vehicular entrances to parking area should be a Control automatic time switch at
minimum of 100 feet from any traffic control desk
intersection. Directional reflectors to prevent or diffuse
Parking area should be laid out to provide an objectionable illumination spillage on surround-
efficient service arrangement for deliveries and ing areas are required.
trash removal and safe, convenient and pleasant
(b) Plumbing
pedestrian areas.
Hose bibb
There should be a drop-off area at the entrance
to the building. (c) Surface
Parking aisles and main walks should point Paving area: bituminous paving
toward the building for safety and convenience Walks: concrete

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Spatial Organization - January 1976

CHAPTER 5
SPATIAL ORGANIZATION
5-1 OBJECTIVES for lounges and waiting areas and by enabling
participants to see from one area into another.
The Recreation Center should be spatially
organized to encourage social interaction and c. ADAPTATION TO SITE & CLIMATIC
user participation; to allow many diverse VARIABLES. The spatial organization of a
activities to occur simultaneously; and to Recreation Center must consider the site
facilitate administrative control of the Center. variables (size, shape, contours, orientation,
This Chapter describes spatial organizational views, and natural features) and climatic
principles that may be employed in the variables (severe or temperate). For example, a
development and review of designs. A principle Center which is to be constructed on a site with
is defined here as a rule exemplified in the natural beauty, proper solar orientation and
organization and layout of a building design. In temperate climate may be outwardly oriented,
order to provide guidance on how individual with the activity spaces focused toward the
spaces and design elements go together, spatial outside of the building; if the Center is to be
organizational principles are expressed (and built in an area with a severe climate and
illustrated ) as typical rules which describe how generally unattractive surroundings, its spatial
individual spaces go together to form functional organization should be focused toward the
areas, and how functional areas go together to interior of the Center.
form a building design. d. EXPANSION. If a Center exhibits a strong
likelihood for expansion of activities, the
5-2 PRINCIPLES Center's spatial organization should be planned
Spatial organization must be based primarily on to permit a functional growth by increasing the
the interrelatedness of activities, maximum number of spaces or by enlarging the existing
flexibility of the Center, successful adaptation spaces. As a Center expands, the necessity for
to site and climate variables, and possible flexibility decreases, because space usage is
Center expansion. These variables will be determined by administrative control.
affected by achieving economic construction
and mechanical systems layout, maintaining 5-3 CRITERIA
user safety and facility security, incorporating a. ACTIVITY ANALYSIS. Four variables
site amenities, and providing for use by the which affect spatial organization should be
physically handicapped. analyzed.
a. INTER RELATEDNESS OF ACTIVITIES. (1) Physical Access. Physical access is the
Activities should be grouped to maximize most important factor in spatial organization;
desirable effects (accessibility, control, multi- its primary concerns are convenience of
use) or separated to minimize conflicts (noise, circulation, ease of administrative control, and
activity incompatibility). potential for social interaction.
b. FLEXIBILITY OF USE. The spatial organi- (2) Acoustics. The next most important
zation must allow the simultaneous occurrence criterion is acoustics, or the generation of
of many diverse activities, from planned disruptive noise by an activity. If a conflict
activities to spontaneously self-generated activ- arises between accessibility and acoustics, the
ities, by diverse groups of people. accessibility requirements should govern loca-
Activity areas must be arranged to encourage tion with the acoustical problem being treated
casual interaction by using the transitional areas technologically.

5-1
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Spatial Organization - January 1976

requirements for each space. The purpose of

(3) Visual Access. The third factor gov-
this matrix is to provide assistance in the
erning spatial organization is visual access which
establishment of priorities for planning spatial
is the capability of seeing from one area to
organization. If trade-offs are required because
another. This is important for administrative
of design constraints, they can be evaluated in
control and increasing awareness of alternative
terms of the effect they will have on the
activities.
function of the Center. Values have been
(4) Compatibility. Compatibility of activ- assigned to spatial relationships as follows:
ities, the fourth criterion, measures the level of <Ä> Necessary - the activity should be located
interference one activity can tolerate from immediately adjacent to other activities.
another without disturbance; gives considera-
tion to requirements for privacy, concentration, ^ Desirable - the activity should be located
and attention of the users; conflicting elements near other activities.
are noise, physical activity, and administration \/ Unimportant - location is not a factor.
policy.
<£> Undesirable - the activity must be remotely
D. AFFINITY CRITERIA. These results of an
located or acoustically separated from
activity analysis are summarized in Table 5-1,
Affinity Matrix, which presents the adjacency another.

Table 5-1. Affinity Matrix.

Circulation/Lounge
Entry/Lobby
Central Program Area
Platform
Pantry
Active Games Area
TV Lounge
Table Games Areas
Open Multi-Purpose (sm & Irg)
Enclosed Multi-Purpose (sm & Irg)
Telephone Lounge
Carrels
Special Interest
Control Center
Administrative Offices
irr
Vending
Snack Bar/Amusement Center
Maintenance Areas
Public Toilets
Terrace
Entry Court
Parking

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Spatial Organization - January 1976

5-4 CONCEPTS

Figure 5-1 Spatial Organization Conceptual Diagram

a. ORGANIZATION. Based on the activity
analyses, the Recreation Centers should be
spatially organized to focus all small group
activities on the central program area with the
transitional spaces integrating the two elements.
A hierarchy of characteristics should be
established which orders the activities away
from the central program area according to size
- large to small; active to passive; communal to
private. Highly used areas should be strate-
gically located to draw users past new activities,
This arrangement encourages movement, social
interaction, and allows direct control of the
greatest possible area and the largest number of
people.
b. SCHEMATICS. Several basic spatial organi-
zation schemes can be developed by manip-
ulating the transitional space. Each scheme is
evaluated in terms of activity interrelationships,
flexibility of use, adaptation to site and climate
variables, and provision for expansion (see
Table 5-2).

5-3
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Spatial Organization - January 1976

(1) Linear. The linear scheme is Character- (2) Central. The Central scheme places the
ized by a single transitional spine along which central program area in a core position with
activity spaces are arranged; central program small group activities encircling it; the transi-
area is centrally located. tional space separates the two elements.

ooHfijanuaiM&b

\\ r-----1i:'a
VV I !_- =

1 to 1 relationship of activities to circulation

minimizing the number of adjacent relation-
ships and consequently conflicts.

'Conpucnna **&e>

Linear plan maximizes distance between activ- The large group activity area is central and
ities which facilitates noise control but inhibits separates conflicting small group activities.
visual control. However, in smaller centers the Since the large group area is adjacent to all
proximity of activities necessitates a technolog- other areas across the transitional area,
ical approach to sound control as well as opportunities for social interaction are max-
planning considerations. imized.

Figure 5-2 Linear Scheme Figure 5-3 Central Scheme

Key

T Transitional PL Platform
LGA Large Group Activities OT Terrace
SGA Small Group Activities L Lobby
SI Special Interest D Dressing
ADM Administrative LD Loading
IC Control / ITT TE Telephone
R Refreshment S Service
V Vending ME Mechanical

5-4
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Spatial Organization - January 1976

(3) Dispersed. The Dispersed scheme scat- (4) Axial The Axial scheme combines the
ters spaces to reduce conflicts, uses enclosed intents of the Linear and Central schemes; the
spaces to buffer sound and separate open transitional space is divided into two axial paths
spaces. The transitional space acts as a around the central program area which separate
decentralized link that both connects and incompatible small group activities.
separates activities.

eumsMEVä

Buffer activities separate the large group area

from peripheral small group activities. This
The central large group area separates con-
arrangement decreases opportunities for social
flicting small group activities and is adjacent to
interaction but allows diverse activities to occur
most areas including the lobby across the
within a relatively constricted area. Taking
transitional area. This arrangement should
advantage of site conditions when possible, the
maximize opportunities for social interaction.
roofs of buffer areas should become mezzanines
or overlooks which visually connect peripheral
areas and the large group area.

Figure 5-4 Dispersed Scheme Figure 5-5 Axial Scheme

5-5
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Spatial Organization - January 1976

Table 5-2. Spatial Organization Scheme Evaluation.

LINEAR SCHEME CENTRAL SCHEME DISPERSED SCHEME AXIAL SCHEME

(A
Facilitates noise control Separates conflicting Sound control excellent Separates areas with
!c activities conflicting acoustical
> c requirements well
Facilitates visual control Reduces visual/physical Visual/physical access
s .2 Inhibits visual control facilitated
< S Works best with Centers of access to all spaces
0> 12,700 SF or less
C

Locate popular activities

> More opportunities for Maximum opportunity for Spontaneous social
at ends of axes to encourage
™ «
social interaction social interaction because interaction hampered
£ => of visual and physical access movement past new activities
« a Highly flexible Houses many diverse
u. activities well with
to no dysfunctions
w
-1
a.
o
7 c Can be focused outwardly Focused inwardly Similar to site adapta- "Functions well in all
if
a.
1* Requires solar path Suitable for severe
tion for Central Scheme climates

8 u
s*
<
orientation climates Adaptable to any site
condition
Suitable for temperate Plan level changes
climates carefully for sloped

Natural cooling results from

orientation to prevailing
winds

Can be expanded at either end Restrictive Limited Expansion can occur at

ends of axes

5-6
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

CHAPTER 6
CASE STUDIES
6-1 GENERAL main post road on its southern property line.
There are views of distant mountain ranges
This chapter presents case studies - programs
from the site.
for five hypothetical Recreation Centers,
including Centers of 12,700 SF, 19,800 SF and b. CURRENT USAGE. There are an average of
27,800 SF; a Center in "found space" (an 150-200 people in the existing Center at peak
existing building, not in use) and a remodeling hours of use during weekdays; when there are
of an existing standard design. large group activities on weekends, attendance
increases to about 300-350 people. The Center
These studies are not to be construed as
is operated by two full-time staff members.
definitive designs but as guides to demonstrate
how solutions were derived in specific contexts. A full range of regular programs is provided at
The procedure, as well as the information the Center as well as a small number of Special
presented, is in an abbreviated form to show a Interest programs and a recently initiated
few of the important considerations. An Information Tour & Travel program.
analysis in greater depth with more detailed It is conjectured that use of the Center will
information would be required to actually plan remain fairly constant in the future, but there is
and design a Recreation Center. a possibility that the installation will grow.
6-2 12,700 SF CENTER c. PLANNED ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS
a. SITUATION. This installation is located in FOR THE NEW CENTER. The following
the southwestern United States between two activities are anticipated for the new Center.
medium-size towns and approximately 45 miles These were planned on the expansion of
west of the state capital. The post consists of current popular programs and the provision of
1,500 enlisted personnel and has no training new activities in which patrons have expressed
units. The surrounding towns provide typical interest.
leisure activities as well as unique opportunities
(1) Administrative. The professional staff,
for skiing, backpacking, and rock hunting in involved in planning, supervising, and partic-
nearby mountains. ipating in all programs at the Center, is assisted
Currently the Recreation Center is housed in a by dependent and military volunteers who
temporary building which is scheduled for conduct some of the planned activities. A staff
demolition to build new troop housing. member operates the control desk and the ITT
Therefore, a new Recreation Center is to be program.
built as part of a small community center
located between the married enlisted men's and (2) Large Group. Usually there will be three
non-commissioned officers' housing and the planned weekly large group functions - Friday
barracks complex. Other facilities in the night dances, Saturday night socials with live
complex are an Arts and Crafts Center, Movie entertainment, and Sunday night films. Attend-
Theater, a Post Exchange with complete food ance will range from 200-250. In addition,
service, and a library. there will be hi-weekly demonstrations of
Kung-Fu, fencing, and other exhibitions which
The post area climate is hot and arid with an will have about 60-100 attendees. The Center
annual normal temperature range of 35°-105° will be used for non-recreational events such as
F; annual precipitation, 7.20 inches; prevailing unit parties in which about 200 people attend,
southwesterly breezes in summer, 18 mph. as well as community activities such as blood
The Center site is long and narrow with the drives.

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

(3) Small Group. During the week, patrons ities such as chess, table games, letter writing,
have displayed a great deal of interest in record and tape listening, small meetings, etc.
self-generated activities, especially billiards and and should be spatially divided into smaller
card playing, which are expected to attract configurations scaled to the group sizes.
about 50 participants each in the new Center. (3) Small Group Activities. Small group
There will usually be one card and pool space must be programmed to allow activities
tournament each week with as many as 50-60 to overlap in each space; the central program
entrants and spectators expected. area can be used weeknights to house larger
The Center also operates some informal classes activities (rap sessions, card tournaments, etc.).
on "cooking for fun" (15 people) and rock One enclosed multipurpose space is required to
collecting (10 people). TV viewing is not as house approximately 30 people involved in
popular as other small group activities; it may noisy activities (combo practice) and private
draw 25 people per night A rap session about activities (meetings and "slimnastics"). One
social awareness topics will involve 20 people open multipurpose space is required to house
per week and an informal combo practice (5 10 people for recorded music listening,
persons playing, 15 spectators) will take place informal classes, and writing; four private
nightly. carrels are also required.
(4) Special Interest. Groups currently meet Two TV lounges are required to accommodate
three nights per week for coin collecting, skiing, 50 viewers for two local channels. Large TV
and rock hunting. Since this program is events can be viewed in smaller lounges with
relatively new, interest must be generated to portables or a large projection screen in the
increase participation from the 20 members central program space.
each club has now. There is also a "slimnastics"
(4) Special Interest Programs. Since these
class specifically for enlisted wives which meets
programs are new, they should occur in open
in the early evening.
areas such as the central program space, lounge
(5) Refreshments. Since the Center will be areas, or multipurpose areas to attract new
located within walking distance of a full service participants.
PX facility, the only refreshment activities 9
which will occur are snacking during regular
hours and special refreshments provided by the
Center for special events and festivities. /
d. SPACES REQUIRED. The following spatial
requirements have been derived from current I&IAMVS

and planned Center activities and programs. -v i *// laeRwNE Most-

(1) Administrative Offices. As recom-.
mended in Chapter 4.
(2) Large Group Activities. The central
program space should be sized to a maximum
of 250 people for movies and dances:
Movies: 250 x 8 SF/person '2,000 SF
Dances: 250 x 15 SF/person "3,750 SF
Because some dance-related activities can occur
in lounges (sitting out, socializing, taking
refreshments), the central program space should
be reduced by 20%.
Q5S**
During the week the central program space will
accommodate a variety of self-generated activ- Figure 6-1 Spatial Diagram 12,700 SF Center

6-2
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

e. SUMMARY OF SPATIAL The central program area is developed as a

REQUIREMENTS. bilevel space. When used for dances, the lower
area would serve as the dance floor and the
Table 6-1. Spatial Requirements 12,700 SF
upper area would be a lounge with tables and
Center
chairs. The pantry is located so that refresh-
Administrative Spaces ment service during large group activities could
Information Tour & Travel 50 use the upper level of the central space as a
Control 150 lounge. During movies and platform presenta-
Administrative Offices 400 tions, the two levels would afford better sight
Storage 250 lines to viewers sitting in the rear. The stepped
platform could be used for "in the round"
Large Group Spaces
3,000 seating for demonstrations and small presenta-
Central Program Space
Platform 750 tions or as a lounge when no large group
Dressing, Storage, Loading 600 activities are in operation.

Small Group Spaces Two TV areas are developed to insure that a

Pantry 250 choice of channels would be available to the
Telephones 100
Carrels (4) 120
Open Multipurpose 150 The exterior of the building expresses its
Enclosed Multipurpose 600 location in the Southwestern United States by
TV/Meeting 750 reflecting the local, regional architecture and
Active Games 1,490 the local climate conditions in the choice of
Refreshment (AAFES Food Service & Games) materials, the use of architectural detail, and
Vending Machines & Games 850 the control of fenestration. The overall design is
developed as a low, horizontal scheme that is
Lobby 150 emphasized by long blank walls, with a
Service Spaces minimum of small punched openings, wide
Public Toilets 450 overhangs that cast strong shadows, and being
Janitor's Closet 50 clad with a single, unified material, stucco. A
band of high windows surrounding the Center
Net Total 10,160
under the overhang allows diffused, reflected
Transition Space + Net to Gross @ 25% 2,540 natural light to enter the building; in the central
TOTAL (Excluding Mechanical Space) 12,700 program space a raised roof section with a
similar band of windows naturally lights this
f. DESIGN SOLUTION. This solution is area; where needed, small square windows are
developed as an outwardly oriented, linear located to provide vision to the exterior. As a
spatial organization pattern because of the site contrast to the solidness of the rest of the
facade, the entry is glazed to emphasize its
configuration and climatic patterns to permit
openness, to be inviting to people entering, and
constant ventilation during most of the year.
Also, because of local climatic conditions, the to enable internal activities to be seen.
building incorporates a number of terraces, To reinforce "the building's horizontality and to
provided for outdoor activities; these are extend its apparent size, wing walls are added
located on the northern side of the building to to the terraces.
reduce glare and heat.
Noisy areas (billiards and pingpong) are g. TECHNICAL SOLUTION. The structural
separated from the central program space by scheme selected is a combination of long span
the enclosed multi-purpose space. The highly and short span steel joists bearing on masonry
used billiards and eating areas are located at the walls. To reduce cost, these would be exposed
opposite ends of the circulation spine to draw in all large areas whose technical requirements
people past other activities. would permit it; to present an orderly and

6-3
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

attractive appearance, all joists would be

oriented in the same direction.
Because of the climate - lack of rain - a flat
roof (1/4" per foot of slope) with large overhangs
was selected to reduce cooling loads. The
exterior of the building will be faced with latex
stucco to have the same visual quality as the
regional adobe architecture, The fenestration of
the building is maximized on the northern
elevation and minimized on the southern to
reduce solar heat build-up in the Center.

6-4
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

Figure 6-2 Plan 12,700 SF Center

6-5
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Figure 6-3 Elevation & Section 12,700 SF Center

6-6
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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

6-3 19,800 SF CENTER (1) Information,Tour & Travel. ITT is used

quite a bit to plan small group trips to urban
a. SITUATION. The fort is located in the
areas and to arrange reduced fare accom-
middle northwestern prairies, approximately
modations at the hotels and will continue to be
150 miles from the nearest city; there are two
highly active in the new Center where the
small towns near the fort which have a sizable
program will be enlarged.
population of retired military personnel. The
military population is 3,975, of which 2,075 (2) Large Group. The predicted attendance
are enlisted personnel, 70% being permanent range for large group activities will be as
party personnel and 30% advanced training follows: 200, square dancing; 300, bingo; and
personnel. 400, socials. Large group activities also include
Since the surrounding area offers little in leisure films, dances, festivals, socials and exhibitions
or tourist facilities, most of the military with attendance averaging approximately 250
community's recreation activities must be people.
provided by the installation. Recognizing this
need, the commander is requesting that a new (3) Small Group. Games, tournaments, and
community center be built to replace the TV viewing are the most popular and will have
obsolete and over-crowded temporary buildings about 100 people watching the two local
now in use. This community center will have channels and about 75 people playing games
facilities for all recreation programs as well as and cards nightly. Record and tape listening,
post exchange, GED Center, theaters, guest taping, and combo practice sessions are
house, and restaurant. The two existing extremely popular also, with about 30 people
Recreation Centers located in isolated tempo- anticipated to request ear phones or records
rary buildings will be demolished for new nightly; informal combo sessions also will occur
housing construction. nightly and will involve about 10 patrons.
The climate of this area is severe: normal Enlisted wives have expressed an interest in
temperatures are 86° F in the summer and 0° F starting sewing and home decorating classes,
in the winter; annual extreme temperatures are and some people exhibited an interest in
114° F and -45° F. Annual precipitation is starting ecology and antique collecting classes.
15.15 inches and the annual snowfall is 34.8 Rap sessions were not attempted in the old
inches. The northerly winter winds average Centers because of a lack of space, but soldiers
about 35 mph and the westerly summer breezes have indicated that they would be interested; a
about 10 mph. Noon solar angle is 69° on the poll revealed that 60 people would be
summer solstice and 22° on the winter solstice. extremely interested and 30 people moderately
The site is within walking distance of the interested, so a rap session program is to be
training area and is located across the main initiated in the new Center for about 50 people
three times a week.
traffic artery from the post exchange and movie
theater and east of the GED Center and guest (4) Special Interest Groups meet every
house. The site is flat with the road on the weekday night. The bike riding club (30
western side and no significant features or members) meets Sunday afternoons; there is a
views. motorcycle club (50 members); enlisted wives
b. CURRENT USAGE. The Center is used by club (100 members); ski club (25 members);
300-500 people on weekdays and 750-1,000 on coin collecting club (30 members); and ecology
weekends; it is open from 1-10 pm daily except club (30 members). Meeting activities range
Sundays, when it is open from 10 am-10 pm. from lectures, exhibitions, work on projects,
Because of the lack of other facilities, the business meetings, and planned outside activ-
Center will be highly used for non-recreational ities. Since the Special Interest Program is well
events during the morning hours. organized and attended, it will definitely be
c. PLANNED ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS included in the new facility and hopefully
FOR THE NEW CENTER. expanded.

6-7
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

(5) Refreshment. These activities center on (4) Special Interest. The special interest
a vending area with seating for 38 and electric room should be sized to hold 60 people who
games, as recommended by Army and Air are in club meetings or working on projects:
Force Exchange Services. 60 x 20 SF/person = 1,200 SF
d. SPACES REQUIRED. The following spaces
have been derived from current and planned
Center activities and programs:
(1) Administrative. Off ice space is required
for three full-time staff members (as outlined in
Chapter 4) with ITT spaces including work
areas and counter space.
(2) Large Group. The central program space
is planned to house its most extensive use, 300
people for bingo, which requires that all people
be located in proximity to the platform.

300 x 10 SF/person = 3,000 SF

Because dances and socials have as many as 400

participants, there should also be a lounge for
50 people:

50 x 15 SF/person = 750 SF

(3) Small Group. These spaces should be

sized in accordance with guidance presented in
Chapter 4.
1 enclosed large space for informal combo
sessions, group meetings, audio-visual pres-
entations (600 SF)
2 enclosed small spaces for music practice,
classes, and small meetings (150 SF each)
8 enclosed cubicles for recorded music lis-
tening and taping and writing; headphone Figure 6-4 Spatial Diagram 19,800 SF Center
jacks should also be provided in other lounge
areas (30 SF each)
2 open multipurpose spaces for rap sessions,
hobby activities, game playing, and card
playing (1 @ 150 SF and 1 @ 600 SF)
1 pantry for refreshments and cooking class
(250 SF)
2 TV viewing areas for 70 people; open on
transition space for overflow:
70 x 15 SF/person = 1,050 SF
active games areas should include the
following:
Pingpong 2 tables® 250 SF = 500 SF
Billiards 6 tables® 215 SF = 1,290 SF
Electric Games = 700 SF
Seating = 210 SF

6-8
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

e. SUMMARY OF SPATIAL exterior of the building to be developed in a

REQUIREMENTS. manner that achieves maximum energy con-
servation. This is accomplished by surrounding
Table 6-2. Spatial Requirements 19,800 SF
the building with earth berms and covering the
Center roof with earth, which functions as insulation
Administrative Spaces material, reduces exterior wall surface, and
Information Tour & Travel 100 gives the Center a distinctive exterior appear-
Control 300 ance that fits the ecology of the area.
Administrative Offices 500
Storage 350 The central program space is a series of stepped
levels which permit a number of smaller
Large Group Spaces activities to coexist with a large group activity
Central Program Space 3,750
taking place in the center. The central space can
Platform 750
be used as a "seating in the round" with the
Dressing, Storage, Loading 800 center of attraction in the lower level or
Small Group Spaces "traditionally" with the speakers and perform-
Pantry 250 ers on the presentation platform or as a series
Telephones 200 of small informal lounge areas. The stepped
Carrels (8) 240 levels enable the viewers at the rear to have
Open Multipurpose (small ) 150 better sight lines. To provide natural light in the
Open Multipurpose (large) 600 central program space, a cluster of skylight
Enclosed Multipurpose (small) 150 monitors is located above the stepped area
Enclosed Multipurpose (large) 600 forming a pool of natural light and pleasant
TV/Meeting 1,050 ambience.
Active Games The popular small group activities are located at
Pingpong 500
the extremes of the circulation paths to draw
Billiards 1,500
people through the Center and to isolate noisy
Electric Games (not AAFES) 700
Special Interest 1,200 activities from quiet ones.

AAFES Food Services & Games 1,150 The angular TV viewing room is developed with
350 informal built-in stepped seating focused
Lobby
toward the screen to give everyone good
Service Spaces visibility.
Public Toilets 600
Janitor's Closet 50 The control desk is projected out into the
15,840 transition space to give greater visual access to
Net Total
all areas of the Center. The pantry relates
Transitional Space + Net to Gross @ 25% 3,960 positively to the administrative area, central
TOTAL (Excluding Mechanical Space) 19,800 SF program space, and terrace. The terrace is
located on the south for greater usability with a
covered area to reduce summer sun to the
f. DESIGN SOLUTION. This Recreation building.
Center is spatially organized in a central scheme
which develops a greater envelope/enclosure This solution employs two different spatial
ratio to aid in energy conservation. Because of configurations for the large multipurpose
the severe climate and the lack of site space. One is designed to house private
amenities, the building is inwardly oriented meetings and combo practice and consists of a
toward a complex central program area. The series of stepped platforms which surround
purpose of this interior form is to provide visual central space; this space can also be used for
interest and to make the central space less lectures and meetings by having the speaker
formal and more inviting to the users. Also, this stand in the podium corner; the other is a
spatial organizational concept enables the flexible and open multipurpose space.

6-9
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

The visual character of the Center is char-

acterized by its location on the prairie with a
low flat silhouette that blends into the natural
qualities of the landscape. The earth berms are
interspersed with light wells formed by wing
walls where openings are required for vision or
access and to add visual interest to the facade.
To draw people into the Center and to
emphasize the entrance of the building a
diagonal wing wall opens the berm to the entry
and forms the entry court.
g. TECHNICAL SOLUTION. The structural
concept is one central long-span steel joist
construction over the central space, around
which there is a short-span steel joist system
over the enclosing small group spaces. Since the
snowfall is moderate and the climate dry, a
moderately sloping roof is appropriate, using
earth-fill on the roof to serve as additional
insulation. Because of acoustical considerations,
the small group spaces should have a dropped
acoustical ceiling. The exterior envelope would
be an insulated masonry wall with a minimum
of openings for fenestration.

6-10
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

Figure 6-5 Plan 19,800 SF Center

6-11
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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

Figure 6-6 Elevation & Section 19,800 SF Center

6-12
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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

6-4 27,800 SF CENTER that beer and wine not be served at the Center.

a. SITUATION. The post is located on the c. PLANNED ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS

west coast near a large metropolitan area which IN THE NEW CENTER. The Center staff wants
offers a number of off-post recreational to provide a full range of regular programs and
facilities for outdoor activities such as surfing, increase the number of large group programs
skiing, and back-packing as well as typical that involve both the permanent and trainee
urban activities such as the theater, restaurants, groups while still recognizing some incompat-
and night life. The military population consists ibilities of the two groups.
of over 10,000 men (6,000 enlisted men),
(1) Administrative. There are five full-time
which includes 50% permanent party personnel
staff members involved in administrating
and 50% basic trainees.
Recreation Programs. At this Center, ITT will
A new main Recreation Center will be built be a full-time activity which involves distrib-
between two training commands in an area that uting tickets for on- and off-post events as well
has theaters, libraries, and swimming pools, but as arranging group travel and outings and
does not have post exchange restaurant making accommodations at nearby military
facilities located in the vicinity. The objective campgrounds,
of the Center is to relieve overcrowding of two
Branch Centers which suffer from a lack of (2) Large Group. These activities are plan-
space and over-use during the weekends by ned to accommodate the two different using
trainees. groups, permanent party personnel and train-
ees. On weekends, the emphasis is on socials
The site is located on the crest of a hill
that include dancing, rock and folk entertainers
overlooking the rest of the Center and the
and ethnic festivals; the attendance at these
Pacific Ocean to the south and west. The
events is projected to be approximately 500
climate is mild with a normal temperature range
people. During the weekdays, the programs are
of 48° F - 72° F winter to summer, with
geared to the permanent party personnel with
extreme temperatures at 29° F and 98° F.
films, socials, demonstrations, card tour-
Annual rainfall is 18.02 inches and no
naments, and organized games; the attendance
measurable snow. Winds are westerly at an
is expected to range from between 100 to 250
average of 20 mph. There are 134 clear days per
people. Also, there may be unit parties which
year, 132 partially cloudy days, and 68 rainy
will have between 100-300 participants; these
days per year. The noon solar angle is 76°-30'
will occur during the week. There is some
on the summer solstice and 28°-30' on the
indication that if the activities are located in a
winter solstice.
better facility, there will be an increase in
b. CURRENT USAGE. The projected use of participation.
the Center is high. The current Centers handle
approximately 200 people per hour during the (3) Small Group. These activities now
weekends; it is projected that this trend will comprise the bulk of planned program activities
continue, with Center use heaviest during the taking place in the Center. The most popular
weekends, averaging 1500 to 2500 people per activities are billiards, informal combo practice,
day when the trainees use the Center. record and tape listening, and TV viewing.
Billiards normally attracts about 75 people with
During the weekdays the Center is normally
an equal number using electric games (pinball,
used by the permanent party personnel; usage is electronic tennis, air hockey); this popularity
down to about 300 to 500 per day. The will continue in the new Center but will not
projected high usage of the building indicates increase because of the new activities being
that there will be extreme problems with planned.
control, noise, congestion, and maintenance.
Since the trainees present a problem with TV viewing involves about 100 people per
drinking, the results of a poll of permanent night; it is believed that this would be reduced
party personnel indicate that they would prefer if participation in other activities could be

6-13
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

encouraged. There is a rap session held twice 12 carrels for letter writing, record and tape
weekly and normally involving 50 people; listening, music taping, and other individual
smaller sessions also occur. The spontaneous activities (30 SF each)
informal use of musical instruments is very 24 jack locations in lounge areas
popular; there are at least two sessions nightly 1 active game area for 2 pingpong tables, 8
involving about 20 people; this should remain billiard tables, 4 air hockey machines, and
constant. A minimum of 30 requests are 10 pinball machines (3,785 SF)
received nightly for ear phones or recording (4) Special Interest. Separate space is
equipment. required to accommodate 60 people involved in
(4) Special Interest. These activities include activities or meeting space for 50 people (1200
the following: women's groups (60); Chess Club SF).
(60); Skiing Club (80); Scuba Club (40); and (5) Refreshment. Since there is no full-scale
Coffee House for social awareness (70). food service nearby, there is a need for one to
(5) Refreshment. These activities center be incorporated into this Center.
around an 84-seat snack bar with electric game
area, as recommended by AAFES.
d. SPACES REQUIRED. The following spatial
requirements have been derived from existing
and planned Center activities and programs:
(1) Administrative. Recommended in chap-
ter 4 for five full-time staff,
(2) Large Group. Central program area
sizing is complex because of different sizes of
groups handled weekends and weekdays. The
weekend social would require about 4,500 SF
maximum. The solution must be to develop a
central program area as a large space with
several adjoining lounges that can be used to
hold people socializing during dances and other
activities during weekdays. The central program
space should accommodate 300 with adjoining
lounge space for 100.
300 x 10 SF = 3,000 SF
100 x 15 SF = 1,500 SF
vvrunv
TOTAL 4,500 SF
(3) Small Group. As Centers become larger,
less and less overlap occurs with small group
spaces. Individual space requirements in Chap-
ter 4 govern:
Figure 6-7 Spatial Diagram 27,800 SF Center
2 enclosed multipurpose spaces for 30 people
involved with private meetings, music,
taping of music, etc. (150 SF each)
1 open multipurpose space for 30 people
involved in quiet activities (150 SF each)
2 enclosed spaces for 10 people involved in
noisy activities (150 SF each)
1 open space for 10 people involved in card
playing (150 SF each)

6-14
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

e. SUMMARY OF SPATIAL Because of noise problems, a dispersed spatial

REQUIREMENTS organization is developed to isolate the noisy
areas and buffer the open spaces. The active
Table 6-3. Spatial Requirements 27,800 SF
game area is separated from the open central
Center space by the enclosed small group activity
Administrative Spaces spaces, which serve as sound barriers as well as
Information Tour & Travel 170 enclose noisy activities. The snack bar and
Control 400 active games area are separated to reduce noise
Administrative Offices 775 conflicts and functional and administrative
Storage 400 problems.
Large Group Spaces The snack bar, special interest area, ITT, and
Central Program Space 4,500 telephone lounge are located in close proximity
Platform 750 to the lobby and restrooms because they
Dressing, Storage, Loading 1,200 function during hours when the remainder of
Small Group Spaces the Center is not open. Through the use of
Pantry 250 rolling security screens mounted in the ceiling,
Telephones 300 these areas can be isolated from the rest of the
Carrels (12) 360 Center.
Open Multipurpose (small) [1] 150
The central program space is designed as a large
Open Multipurpose (large) [1] 600
depressed central area for dancing, exhibitions,
Enclosed Multipurpose (small) [2] 300
and seating, with raised circulation space
Enclosed Multipurpose (large) [2] 1,200
surrounding it, and lounges and presentation
TV/Meeting 1,250
platforms adjoining it. The dance area is ringed
Active Games with built-in seating steps that function as
Pingpong 500
informal seating during dances or demonstra-
Billiards 2,000
tions. Circulation to the dance floor is provided
Electric Games (not AAFES) 1,285
by a series of ramps which enclose the fireplace
Special Interest 1,200 lounge; this serves a special functional purpose
AAFES Snack Bar & Games 3,450 by accommodating the special heeds of the
500 physically handicapped and incorporating it as
Lobby
an integral and important element of the
Service Spaces design. The platform area of the central space is
Public Toilets 650 at the same level as the main Center floor to
Janitor's Closet 50 facilitate the movement of heavy equipment
Net Total 22,240 from the platform and storage areas to other
Transition Space + Net to Gross @ 25% 5,560 parts of the facility.

TOTAL (Excluding Mechanical Space) 27,800 TV viewing areas are separated to reduce
conflicts between those watching different
f. DESIGN SOLUTION. This scheme is orien- shows and shaped to provide the best viewing
ted outwardly toward the views of the bay angles.
from the site; it incorporates a large outdoor
terrace that serves the central program space g. TECHNICAL SOLUTION. Because of the
and the snack bar as an overflow area as well as number of people using this building and its
houses many outdoor activities. The mild size, its construction has to be fire-resistant and
climate of the area allows the building design to non-combustible. Based on the economic
incorporate large areas of glass, especially on analysis at the time of design, the most
the southern and northern facades, and to use cost-effective construction would be poured-in-
skylight monitors to provide daylight in the place concrete structural system with exposed
interior spaces of the building. waffle slabs used throughout the building.

6-15
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

Figure 6-8 Plan 27,800 SF Center

6-16
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Figure 6-9 Elevation & Section 27,800 SF Center

6-17
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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

6-5 FOUND SPACE adequate utility service for loads outlined in

Chapter 2; and a suitable physical condition to
The following illustrates a case study of what
enable economical remodeling. Another desir-
can be done if there is not enough money
able feature is a building which has a totally
available to construct a new Recreation Center
open interior, providing greater flexibility and
and if there is an existing building not currently
ease of remodeling.
in use which could possibly house a Center. It
should be stressed that this is an illustrative
b. PROGRAMMING FOUND SPACE. Once
example and that the local situation and needs
the building has been determined to be suitable
will govern the outcome of this type of
for use as a Recreation Center, a space
endeavor. The purpose of this example is to
requirements list is developed. There is a
outline a procedure that should be followed
significant difference between developing found
and to illustrate a potential design for a
space requirements and developing new space
hypothetical building.
requirements. Found space must conform to
a. EVALUATING FOUND SPACE. To eval- the structural, spatial, and environmental
uate the suitability of an existing structure for service limitations of the existing structure and
reuse as a Recreation Center, the following the budget limitations for remodeling as well as
criteria, in order of importance, must be being responsive to the recreation program and
fulfilled: activities of the Center. Therefore, before
(1) The structure should be permanent, planning can begin, a budget and survey
drawings must be developed.
(2) It must be located in proximity to
housing, transportation, other recreation serv-
(1) Budget. The availability of funds for
ices, and PX facilities.
remodeling will have a great impact on planning
(3) It must be large enough to house a full by limiting the modifications that can be made
range of programs; this will vary depending to an existing structure. For example, if limited
upon installation population, successful pro- funds are available, the Recreation Center
grams, and existing equipment. programs including activities, people, and
(4) The site should be on a main circulation equipment would have to fit into the building
artery having post routes and have enough spaces as they exist without improvements. If
space for parking a minimum of 40 cars. sufficient funds were available, interior demoli-
tion and complete remodeling could take place,
In addition to these criteria, the building must fitting the building to the Recreation Center
have the following critical features: a large program. Therefore, a realistic determination of
space suitable for a central program area; funds must be developed.

(2) Survey Drawings. To plan the Center, an

accurate survey of the building should be
available which indicates the sizes of existing
spaces and the structural and environmental
systems of the building. The budget for the
project will be determined by what has to be
done to the building to make it usable to house
the recreation program within the constraints
of the available funds. The priorities of the
Recreation Center program have to determine
what modifications are most important, and
what are the least important. For example, if
the program planning indicates that the most
important space requirement is a large central
Figure 6-10 Plan Found Space Building program area and the existing building requires

6-18
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

extensive modification to accommodate this the programs in the Center, the other staff
need, this requirement should take precedence member operates the Control Center and ITT.
over other less important changes and would be (2) Large Group. There are usually four
included in the construction within a limited planned weekly group functions; attendance is
budget. anticipated to range from 200-250 people in
The planning of the Recreation Center program the Found Space Center. These activities are
should follow the same procedure as outlined in Friday night dances, Saturday night socials,
Chapter 2, and should be guided by the criteria Sunday night films and popcorn, and Wednes-
and principles stated in Chapters 4 and 5. The day night bingo. The Center will be used
difference is that many of the space require- occasionally for Commander's Calls with
ments will have to be modified to meet the approximately 50 people in attendance, and for
constraints of the existing structure. However, unit parties of about 200 people.
the design of a Found Space Center should have (3) Small Group. The Center currently has 4
the same design objectives of new construction billiard tables and one pingpong table; because
— it should maximize social interaction and the of budgetary reasons, it has been decided not to
patron's freedom of choice to pursue interests add any more game equipment in the Center. It
and activities. has been anticipated that approximately 30
c. SITUATION. The installation is located in people will watch TV during a normal evening.
the southeastern part of the country and has a Recorded music and drama listening has been a
military population of 4,401 permanent party popular activity. Informal combo practice is a
personnel. An existing Center is located in a popular activity occurring frequently. It usually
temporary building which has serious structural consists of from 1-6 persons practicing with
faults. The post commander has decided that approximately 5-10 onlookers. Sometimes
the Recreation Center should be located in one patrons tape such activities or tape program
of the several permanent buildings not cur- speakers; an in-house audio/taping system
rently being used. enables this process.

d. CURRENT USAGE. The Center now being (4) Special Interest. Among the special
used has approximately 125-175 people in interest activities scheduled twice weekly are
the gourmet cooking club with 15 members and
attendance during weekday peak activity hours.
coin collecting club with about 40 members. It
When there are large group events, the
is felt by the members and staff that they could
attendance may include as many as 400
use an enclosed multipurpose space for their
patrons.
meetings. In addition, there are classes of 10-40
A full range of regular programs is provided at people that meet as a particular subject
this Center. In addition, there is growing becomes popular or interesting.
participation in special interest programs;
Based on the current and planned activities and
however, these do not represent a major part of
requirements, an existing building consisting of
the Center's activities.
11,850 SF was determined as the building most
The Center is operated by two full-time suitable for the Center; it has two large spaces
recreation professionals. It is anticipated that of 2000 SF each. Funds were available for some
the Center usage will remain fairly constant remodeling and interior demolition.
when the Center is moved to the found space,
f. SPACES REQUIRED.
which is approximately the same size as the
existing Center. (1) Large Group. A central program area is
the most critical space requirement. To
e. PLANNED ACTIVITIES AND PRO- adequately house the local recreation program,
GRAMS. it has to accommodate 200 people for films and
(1) Administrative. The two staff members 250 people for dances.
are involved in planning and supervising the 200 x 8 SF/person = 1,600 SF
programs of the Center. While one is involved in 250 x 15 SF/person = 3,000 SF

6-19
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

The largest existing space is 2,100 SF. This is Transition Space + Net to Gross @ 25% 2,300
considered to be large enough if an adjoining TOTAL (Excluding Mechanical Space) 11,490*
lounge area is provided by demolishing some
'Because of the complications involved in
interior partitions.
fitting a program into existing space, addi-
(2) Small Group. A pool room is the most tional square footage may be required.
critical space for small group activities, which
must be at least 22' wide to permit shooting h. DESIGN SOLUTION. The existing building
without interference and be large enough to lent itself to remodeling with the following
house 4 tables, or 1,000 SF. If pingpong is alterations:
included, this would require an additional 2 The entry was relocated to the corner of the
tables, or 500 SF. The resultant space would entry court so that it would be controlled from
have to be 26' x 57' for two rows of tables. the information desk.
(3) Other. The other critical spaces would The overall planning of the Center was based on
be a large enclosed multipurpose room for the existing linear scheme developed by two
combo practice, meetings, or other activities, large spaces separated by a corridor. In the
and a TV lounge for 30 viewers. The remaining remodeling, one of these spaces became the
spaces can be adapted from Chapter 3 to fit the central program area and the other the active
structure after the above activities are housed, games area. This enabled the two activities to
g. SUMMARY OF SPATIAL be located using the existing mechanical space
REQUIREMENTS as an acoustical buffer between them. The
corridor was developed as a transitional space
Table 6-4. Spatial Requirements Found Space
linking the control desk, the central program
Administrative Spaces area, and the active game area with the small
Control 275 group activities located in existing spaces along
Administrative Offices 400 the spine.
ITT 25 For economic reasons, it was decided to spend
Storage 300 most of the budget in developing an adequate
Large Group Activities large group space and to fit the small group
Central Program Space 2,100 activities into existing spaces. Therefore, the
Platform (to be part of the central large open multipurpose area was located in an
program space) existing 450 SF space. Because the large group
Storage, Dressing, Loading 500 activities held at the Center are usually not
oriented toward presentation-type events, it
Small Group Activities
was deemed advisable to have a smaller
Pantry 250
platform than usual and to locate it in a comer
Telephones 100
to permit greater flexibility in the use of the
Carrels (3) 90
central space. The central space was designed
Enclosed Multipurpose (small) 150
with a stepped-up platform that diagonally
Enclosed Multipurpose (large) 600
spans the space, breaking it up into smaller
Open Multipurpose 600
more intimate lounges without reducing the
TV/Meetings 600
space's ability to house large group activ-
Active Games
ities, such as dances and bingo.
Billiards 1,000
Pingpong 500 The other large space was divided to house the
active games and the AAFES vending machine
AAFES Vending & Games 850
area. Because of spatial restrictions, this less
Lobby 350 than desirable proximity was acceptable.
Service Spaces In order to make the Center's new location
Public Toilets 450 more visible to the installation's population, the
Janitor's closet 50 exterior entry court is to be painted with
Net Total 9,190 supergraphics.

6-20
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

Figure 6' 11 Plan Found Space Center

6-21
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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

6-6 REMODELED SPACE • What are the programs we want to run in the
Center?
a. SITUATION. Since March of 1955, Recrea-
• Can the existing building support these
tion Centers (formerly Service Clubs) were built
programs?
from standard designs. Reviewing the success of
these designs, several inherent strengths and • What is right with the existing building and
weaknesses are apparent. In response to the should be retained in the remodeling?
changing demands placed on these facilities, a • What is wrong with the facility and should
remodeling program should be developed which be changed?
would retain the good features and correct the
problems of the standard designs. • How will these changes affect the social and
recreational programming?
Inherent design strengths are the segregation of
conflicting activities, a minimum of circulation • How much money can be spent?
with independent access to all spaces, and • Will it be accomplished at one time or in a
maximum control of the Center from the desk. series of small changes?

Major weaknesses are the result of changing • What are the Center's priorities?
recreational attitudes and needs, which require • Which problems have the most impact on
that spaces be adaptable to new programs and the Center's social programming and should
activities as old programs are phased out For be corrected first?
instance, the original program for Service Clubs
From the answers to these questions a
was based on events such as "big band" dances
remodeling program can be developed which
in which a large crowd of dancers and a number
states the problems that must be solved and the
of musicians would use the auditorium space.
justification for funds to solve these problems.
Current recreational programs must accom-
To establish this program and justification for
modate a myriad of small group activities. New
funds, the issue reports should be developed by
programs such as ITT and special interest, and
the Center staff and patrons and organized
new activities such as coffeehouse and rap
according to their impact on the Center's
sessions have particular spatial needs which
operation. These issue reports should include:
were not originally considered in the standard
designs. In addition to programming problems, (1) A Supported Statement of the Problem
certain technological and design deficiencies to be Addressed, i.e., there is too much noise,
such as soundproofing and a negative institu- no space for special interest, no ITT, etc.
tional appearance are also evident.
(2) A Statement of the Specific Attributes
Since not all Centers face the same problems of the Context in which the Problem Exists,
and economic constraints vary, the planning of i.e., concurrent activities create serious noise
any remodeling should be based on the local problems in the current central program space;
Recreation Center programs, the needs of the clubs are not forming and special interests are
patrons and staff, and the physical condition of not being developed because there is no suitable
the Center facility. The intent of this case study space for meeting; there are no on-post travel
is to show a series of modifications that can and tour services available on the installation.
change an existing Center, incrementally
correcting some of the more common prob- (3) Changes Required to Correct the Prob-
lems. While these examples are taken from the lem. A tentative statement of the solution to
27,800 SF standard design, similar renovations the problem to be further developed with
can also be made to other size Centers. engineering assistance; i.e., partition part of the
ballroom to become a special interest room;
b. REMODELING PROCEDURE. Analyze the provide sound insulation, sound absorptive
existing Center in terms of its capacity to house materials, and solid core wood doors in noisy
the desired programs. The following questions areas; provide an ITT desk in the lobby taking
should be answered: advantage of excess utility space.

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

(4) A Statement of the Evidence Required.

Evidence to support the importance of the
problem, the accuracy of the context descrip-
tion, and the appropriateness of the solution,
i.e., indications of patron interest or concern
about the problem, indications of mission or
life safety impacts, etc.
(5) Costs. The using service should seek
professional assistance to review changes and
their cost implications from the District
Engineers to develop a realistic budget for the
project.
(6) Priorities. According to the impact on
the Center's social programming the list of
problems, contexts and solutions should be
tabulated according to the priorities. For
example, the noise problem affects all aspects
of the Center's functioning including the
proposed special interest space; therefore it
should have a high priority and be accom-
plished first.
(7) Phasing. Timing and sequence problems
should be considered and listed, such as must
the Center be closed during the alterations, and
is there a sequence of construction operations
which must be followed to allow the Center to
function during the remodeling?
c. CHANGING THE CENTER. As an aid, this
guide can be used to demonstrate what should
happen in a Center and provide ideas and
criteria for making changes for remodeling. The
following shows what can be done with the
existing Center to incorporate some of these
ideas as an example. The planning and design of
the remodeling for a particular Center must be
based on local problems and needs.
Based on the severity of the problems, priority
for change, and availability of funds, the Center
can be changed in several ways; it can be
redecorated, which requires a minimum of
construction and usually implies the use of
applied materials to make changes and can only
affect the Center minimally. To change the
Center significantly, the Center can be remod-
eled, which requires adding new construction
and changing the existing construction; this
affects the Center maximally. The following
responses contain both recommendations.

6-23
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

Problem 1: Each space is required to handle z Which have to be separated?

too many incompatible activities. The design z Which activities don't have a supportive
does not support any activity because it is too environment?
flexible and lacks the necessary features to
define the space and its intended and potential z What modifications have to be made?
uses. Significant changes can be made without
Response: Use this guide to evaluate the remodeling by relocating activities and using
current recreation program, set new space furniture and wall and color treatments to
allocations, and compare them to the 1955 divide large spaces. Also, by using movable
design standards. Table 6-5 demonstrates such a space dividing screens, plants, and other open
comparison. office planning techniques, the effectiveness of
the space can be increased.
Table 6-5. Comparison of 1955 Standard
Further changes require remodeling of the
Design and Design Guide Criteria, 27,800 SF
facility, such as the addition of carrels, small
Centers.
built-in lounges, built-in seating, or the
Administrative Spaces 1955 DG enclosure of noisy activities.
ITT 0 150
Control Center 770 800
Administrative Offices 725 775
Large Group Spaces
Ballroom 6,080 0
Central Program Space O 4,635
Stage 1,435 0
Platform 0 750
Dressing, Storage, Loading 1,738 1,200
Small Group Spaces
Pantry 80 250
Telephones 198 300
Carrells 0 360
Music Room 650 0
Open Multipurpose 675 750
TV/Meeting 650 1,250
Active Games 1,767 3,670
Reading/Writing 1,610 0
Special Interest 0 1,200
Enclosed Multipurpose 0 1,200
AAFES Snack Bar and Games 3,934 3,450
Lobby
Service Spaces
Public Toilets 983 650
Janitor's Closet 122 50

Establish a new space-use program based on the

evaluation.
• Which activities have similar requirements
and can overlap?

6-24
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

Problem 2: The large ballroom is dysfunc- dividing the space into activity areas using
tionate because it is too large for most movable screens, large floor and hanging plants;
programs; it is out of scale when not filled with suspending lightweight panels from the ceiling,
people and has poor lighting. such as plywood disks, stretched fabric panels,
or banners and flags. These suspended panels
Response: The most effective changes to this can be used horizontally to reduce ceiling
problem can only be brought about by heights or vertically to decrease room size.
remodeling; however, some significant changes Activity areas can also be created by the paint
can be made by redecorating. and color scheme.
Redecorate: Decrease the apparent size by

-Small Group
movable partition 3'-0" H. Lounge Area

—Large Lounge

Presentation
Dance and Area
Social Area
hardwood
dance floor

suspended
banners

different carpet colors

and textures ■—
Table Game
movable partition 7'-0" H Activity Area

Figure 6-12 Redecoration of Ballroom to Decrease Its Apparent Size

6-25
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

Remodel: Break down the space by adding

small group activity spaces, by using raised
areas, half-height partitions, built-in seating for
lounge and game-playing areas.
Project the stage into the central space with
stepped platforms and reduce its size; use the
existing stage for storage; use the existing
storage as a pantry.
Drop panels from the ceiling to define lounge
areas and reduce scale.
Develop stem-mounted, multi-circuit lighting
track system for flexible lighting. Reduce the
number of ceiling mounted light fixtures.

wood slat ceiling

fireplace

-Lounge
Lounge- =wood slat
■ceiling

Open Multipurpose
Area (small)-
Stepped Lounge-
Enclosed Multipurpose ■stepped
Area— ■platform
built-in seating- (projection
Open Multipurpose
Area

lockers -
Administrativ«
■Area
Lobby—
Kitchen
Control
Center —

kiosk

ITT-

Figure 6-13 Remodeling of Ballroom Into a Central Program and Small Group Activities Areas

6-26
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

Problem 3: New programs have been added

after plans were developed and do not have
space allocated to them.
Response: Redecorate: Change the function
of spaces: the quiet reading room could become
a Special Interest room if a storage wall and
counter are added. Add functions to existing
space: a free-standing ITT office and lounge
could be developed in the lobby space.
Remodel: Reduce the size of the ballroom and
use the remaining space for new programs.

Control Center

New ITT
Booth

Storage Area

movable
platform

Special Interest Area

Figure 6-14 Renovations for Special Interest Room, TV Lounge and ITT Booth

6-27
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

Problem 4: The existing Center has an Problem S: Because of the hard surfaces
institutionalized appearance; the image of the throughout the Centers, the building lacks
Center should be informal, non-military, and sound absorption qualities, creating a tremen-
provide a change of pace from the duty dous acoustical problem. Additional problems
environment. This institutionalized appearance exist because this sound is transmitted between
is conveyed by the Center's large spaces, long spaces.
corridors, use of materials, color schemes, Response: The solution to the problem is
uniform lighting systems, and lack of identity two-fold: absorb as much sound as possible in
markers. the space where it is generated and prevent
Response: Redecorate: Change paint schemes sound from escaping into other spaces.
by asking soldiers to indicate preferences of
Redecorate: Separate conflicting acitvities by
colors from TM 5-807-7. Don't use wainscot
locating other activities between them.
treatment; change interior finishes.
Add absorptive materials where possible, such
Cover exposed block walls with different as fabric acoustical wall panels, fiberglass sound
material - i.e., fabric panels, gypsum wall- absorption panels in active game areas and
board, paneling, vinyl wall covering, or enclosed multipurpose space; carpet floors; add
carpeting on floors. This will also reduce the sound baffles to ceiling; change doors to solid
sound level. core wood doors with sound insulating seals;
Create a Center identity by employing a seal cracks between spaces.
distinctive and unified graphic treatment using Remodel: Enclose noisy activities with sound-
the Center's name or logo or supergraphics to proof walls which would have a sound
indicate space identification or intended use. transmission rating of +40 dB or greater and
Remodel: Redesign the lighting system to be with a sound barrier installed above the ceiling
more activity-oriented with changes In light and coincident to the partition. Install acous-
level rather than the existing uniform scheme. tical tile ceilings in noisy areas with an NCR
Use special lighting effects and dimmers; this equal to .85 and STC equal to 35 dB or greater.
would also conserve energy. Where possible, erect sound baffles at doorways
Develop new spatial configurations by using of noisy activity spaces.
built-in furniture and low partitions to define Eliminate openings between spaces where
the spaces; demolish walls, introduce level possible, such as louvers, return air grilles, etc.,
changes, drop ceiling panels, and reorganize install sound baffles in ventilating system.
circulation system.

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Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

Problem 6: The exterior design of the building Problem 7: The Centers lack any meaningful
fails to attract people into the Center. outside social spaces and recreational areas.
Response: The solution is to increase the Response: Redecorate: Install plantings around
passerby's awareness of the Center and the existing patio to extend it visually. Add new
activities taking place within. To do so, the seating areas that use loose paving materials,
Center's exterior should be made as distinctive such as gravel and tan bark. Install outdoor
and attractive as possible. seating arranged in small groups.
Redecorate: Landscape site around Center Remodel: Based on an analysis of the site and
with plantings. Paint Center with an attractive local climatic conditions, the existing concrete
and distinctive color scheme. Install signage to patio can be remodeled and enhanced through
announce events and activities. the addition of a terraced outdoor platform,
low walls, planters, tree pits, and built-in
Remodel: Develop a landscaped entry court
outdoor benches. Materials other than plain
with trees, benches, and integrated lighting as
concrete, such as brick or stone pavers, exposed
outlined in Chapter 4-8.2.
-aggregate concrete, tan bark, and railroad ties
should be used if local climate and economics
permit. The outside recreational areas should
conform to Chapter 4-8.1 of this design guide.

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6-29
Design Guide: Recreation Centers - Case Studies - January 1976

Figure 6-17 Remodeled Center

6-30
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