Recreation centers offer key benefits to their communities – they promote healthy, active lifestyles and stronger interpersonal relationships; offer a safe space for children and teens; and contribute to tourism and economic growth. The new Watauga County Recreation Center is no exception – it delivers on the Watauga Parks and Recreation Department’s goals for enjoyable, fun, and safe programming.
Located on an intersection, the 100,000 square foot facility creates a welcoming edge along both streets with a design that echoes the surrounding Appalachian ridges. A grey clad, undulating roof, extensive curtainwall, and metal standing seam contrast with wood and stone to deliver an aesthetic that is both modern and reminiscent of the mountainous landscape.
The recreation center features a wide variety of spaces, including a six-lane competition pool and leisure pool, four full-size gymnasiums, a multipurpose studio, events classroom, fitness center with weight and exercise rooms, two birthday party rooms, and a suspended track. Visitors are met with a double-level glazed lobby and monumental staircase, which leads to the fitness center and suspended running track on the upper level.
