The intent of the design is to minimize staffing and ongoing operational and maintenance costs. Material selection, mechanical and electrical systems will be designed for ease of maintenance and low operational costs. The use of natural light and other “passive” energy opportunities will be incorporated where appropriate. “Ground source” water for the mechanical system in the building is an example of the energy saving strategies that are currently being evaluated for the new facility.
Architectural Expression / Aesthetics
The long, sloping roof forms of the Uintah Community Center are derived from the nearby rock outcroppings at Red Fleet Reservoir. The interplay of the multiple sloping roofs is similar to the formations that are so prominent at Red Fleet. The roof forms also provide natural light at key locations in the building, most notably at the indoor pool area.
Material selection and detailing is also influenced by the surrounding landscape. Discreet use of locally available stone will be used at key locations such as the entry. Colored concrete block will be used and detailed to depict the stratification that is evident in nearby rock formations. Other use of materials such as corrugated metal and heavy timber will reflect materials that are commonly found in Uintah County.
A sense of vitality and activity within the building will enhance the user(s) experience and because of the plan’s openness, will provide for greater security. The running track, located on the second level, will provide a continuing change of views to all the activity areas and the outdoors. These changing views will enhance the runner’s experience – an approach very different from older facilities where the track was traditionally placed within an enclosed “box.”
The childcare, public meeting and conference areas, along with the kitchen and restrooms, are placed on the entrance side of the “control” desk so that these areas can be used independently from the major activity areas during times when the full community center is not open.
