Building for the Future: The PA Academy Gymnasium
The PA Academy is committed to preparing young people for exceptional lives of purpose and accomplishment as global citizens, devoted to personal excellence and the greater good. At the heart of the school's mission is the belief that participation in athletic programs plays a crucial role in the overall growth of students. In line with this commitment, the school has prioritized the construction of a new state-of-the-art gymnasium that is designed to enhance and meet the growing needs of the school's athletic program and promote student well-being.
In keeping with the school's commitment to excellence and innovation, the design prioritizes maximizing functionality, lively aesthetics, and speedy construction. The use of premanufactured steel as the primary construction material was thoughtfully selected to ensure that the project will be built quickly and efficiently without sacrificing structural integrity or durability. It shall also reduce the impact on the school schedule and minimize disruption to the school's day-to-day activities to ensure that the gymnasium will be completed in time for the 2023-2024 academic year, as planned.
The envelope of the building features a combination of corrugated metal panels and a thin brick facade. The color scheme is predominantly monochromatic, with a mix of light and dark hues creating a modern and sophisticated look. To add a touch of boldness and vibrancy, a bright pop of orange was added to the entrance, creating a create a compelling atmosphere. A pedestrian canopy will connect the new gymnasium to the main school building, promoting connectivity and accessibility, and ensuring that the gymnasium can be used by all students and faculty with ease.
Students and visitors are welcomed into the gymnasium through a warm and inviting lobby that showcases the school's many athletic accomplishments and further connects the community to the school's athletic history. This expansive and inclusive space is specifically designed to welcome all, unfolding to showcase a range of visual elements such as display cases and graphics that celebrate the school's exceptional history and long-standing tradition of athletic excellence.
The multi-use space is the centerpiece of the gymnasium, and it is specifically designed to provide maximum flexibility, accommodating a full-size basketball court with bleachers for spectators. with ample space for spectators to view games and other events. The court is bordered by retractable bleachers, which can be easily stored away to make room for other activities when needed. Another feature that maximizes the floor space available in the gymnasium is the retractable stage, which can be deployed to facilitate a variety of school activities, such as pep rallies, musical performances, and other events. The stage is designed to be easily movable, allowing for flexible use of the space as needed.
The gymnasium also includes dedicated changing rooms, which are designed to be easily accessible from the main gymnasium area, to allow for an effortless transition from classroom to gym. The changing rooms are equipped with lockers, benches, and other amenities to provide a comfortable and convenient space for students to prepare for athletic activities.
Overall, the new gymnasium at PA Academy will be a valuable addition to the PA Academy campus, providing students with the resources they need to excel both academically and athletically.