Tallahassee Senior Center

A new Senior Center was located on Welaunee Boulevard to serve the seniors of Tallahassee.

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This 41,000 SF facility houses the needed programs for the area.

 

These programs are as follows:

• Recreation (gymnasium)

• Reception / Lobby

• Cafe

• Cards and Games

• Large Conference and Multipurpose Spaces

• Art Studio Spaces

• Lifelong Learning

• Wellness Center

• Administration

 

Design Principles  Principals that governed the Design

 

“Collapsing the Environment” 

Reduced hallway length is key to accessibility for participants using the facility.  This goal is accomplished by integrating program elements which are conducive to open access vs the need for privacy and/or audio privacy.

 

“Sociopetal Space”

Movement through the center should allow for social interaction, areas to promote conversations/meetings for individuals and small groups – This can be achieved through furnishings that are placed close to each other where conversations can be more private.

 

“Retreat”

Indoor and/or outdoor areas should be considered where individuals and/or small groups can find quiet meditation opportunities. Perhaps an area where one can just be alone.

 

“Transparency” 

It is important to provide visual connection to meeting spaces, lifelong learning classrooms, art/craft studios, conference rooms, fitness facilities and

aerobic/dance areas to create interest and participation.  Transparency opens space and allows for “borrowed light” into walkways. Furthermore, consistent visual connection is critical to the safety of the center’s participants. Staff and volunteers can monitor activity from adjacent space. 

 

“Open Plan”

As suggested above, providing appropriate program spaces as a means of movement through spaces helps to reduce and/or eliminate corridors.  The use of half walls, casework, fireplaces, furniture, allows programs spaces to connect with limited hallways.

 

“Multiple Layers of Space”

Walls of glass into two story spaces lead to synergy of space. Glass between walking track and program spaces, fitness overlooking gym, informal

space area overlooking multipurpose room.  Strong visual connections between program spaces and outdoor activities promote participation and synergy.

 

“Human Scaled”

Single story sheds, entry canopy, intermediate fascia are all elements to provide scale for users approaching a large structure.