Abstract
The building analyzed in this study is a new student recreation center at a major university. The primary objective of the study was to create design guidelines for recreational facilities that would be useful to sports personnel and architects. Secondly, because the facility is being used as a model for other new facilities, the researchers believe that its successes and shortcomings should be identified. A third objective of this research is to provide a research format that recreational sports personnel can use to evaluate new facilities, or evaluate old facilities in order to justify new construction. The research methods implemented in this study were interviews, observation, behavioral mapping, and questionnaires. Issue-oriented questions were analyzed to address design features such as building organization and finishes. Behavior mapping studies were analyzed to study the ability to supervise the facility. In general, the facility was well received. Design shortcomings, however, included lack of signage, and problems with temperature control, and inappropriate materials selection. Recommended guidelines for recreational facilities are provided.
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