LONOKE COMMUNITY CENTER

In the context of location, the building is designed to celebrate the horizon. Clad in horizontally-corrugated metal, the facility sits in a grassy field just the way a piece of farm equipment would. Bands of horizontal windows offer continuous views into the field and beyond. The spine of the complex is formed by a circulation concourse of cast-concrete columns, steel beams and a laminated-timber roof. Stacked over the locker rooms, the center's excercise room situates itself between the gymnasium and pool, giving views into both areas and stretching outside to the energetic scenery. A one-story arrangement was given for both office and community room with the release of natural light passing over and presenting a line of sight into the spine. By separating the two rooms, the wall of the spine opens up and forms the outdoor courtyard. Between steel girts, composite panels span 14-feet high to providing the building a solid backing and an efficient supply of energy, insulation and economic value.