Architect : LPA Design Studios
Total Construction Cost : $5.42M
Square Feet : 14,500
Project Description:
The renovation of Broughton Recreation Center saved the bones and spirit of an important center of community life for Longview’s underserved Black neighborhood, creating an open, welcoming environment that reflects the needs of the community. Designers engaged deeply with neighbors who had been previously left out of master-planning surveys. Listening sessions and access to every step of the process ensured underrepresented voices were heard, and community feedback drove prioritization of a design geared toward young people.
The original, windowless concrete masonry structure has been opened to the community, with a glass facade and multi-shade green metal panels inspired by the park setting. New windows cut into the west side bring daylighting into new meeting rooms. Glazing is incorporated around the building and into the new gymnasium.
Entry area ceilings were raised to 20 feet, creating a fresh, new lobby with views into a branch library that was relocated from the back of the building to a storefront window. The gymnasium was fully upgraded to include fitness equipment and an open gaming area with ping pong, air hockey and foosball tables. A new esports room features gaming consoles, couches and large-screen TVs.
Cheerful colors draw inspiration from the 19-acre wooded site and the green and blue of the city’s logo. Interior finishes transition from gray/green to blue farther into the building. Green metal screens on the facade mimic the effect of looking through the trees, while abstract tree graphics extend the connection-to-nature theme.
The site has been reimagined with a promenade, landscaping and the extension of walking trails that provide access to the center from the street to the park. The walking trail and basketball courts were resurfaced, and seating areas were added.