Colorado State University Recreation Center

Expanding campus wellness opportunities while keeping student recreation uninterrupted throughout construction.

The Colorado State University Student Recreation Center expansion transformed an already vital campus resource into a premier destination for fitness, recreation, and student engagement. Throughout construction, the existing recreation center remained fully occupied and operational, allowing fitness programming and student services to continue without interruption while maintaining a high level of user satisfaction.

The project added 73,800 square feet to the facility, increasing the total building size to 175,300 square feet. New amenities include a rock climbing wall, an expanded lobby and lounge area, a new pool, fitness studios, a multi-activity gym, renovated locker rooms, a smoothie bar, and additional staff office space. These enhancements significantly expanded recreational opportunities while supporting the health and wellness needs of a growing student population.

The facility’s exterior design incorporates native Colorado foothill stone, composite metal panel systems, and high-performance curtain wall glazing, creating a modern architectural expression that complements the campus environment.

Sustainability was a key component of the project, with strategies including construction waste recycling, the use of sustainable materials and finishes, and energy-efficient mechanical and electrical system upgrades. Together, these improvements created a more environmentally responsible facility while enhancing long-term operational performance.

The result is a modern recreation center that enriches the student experience, promotes wellness, and provides flexible spaces for fitness, recreation, and c

The Colorado State University Student Recreation Center expansion transformed an already vital campus resource into a premier destination for fitness, recreation, and student engagement. Throughout construction, the existing recreation center remained fully occupied and operational, allowing fitness programming and student services to continue without interruption while maintaining a high level of user satisfaction.

The project added 73,800 square feet to the facility, increasing the total building size to 175,300 square feet. New amenities include a rock climbing wall, an expanded lobby and lounge area, a new pool, fitness studios, a multi-activity gym, renovated locker rooms, a smoothie bar, and additional staff office space. These enhancements significantly expanded recreational opportunities while supporting the health and wellness needs of a growing student population.

The facility’s exterior design incorporates native Colorado foothill stone, composite metal panel systems, and high-performance curtain wall glazing, creating a modern architectural expression that complements the campus environment.

Sustainability was a key component of the project, with strategies including construction waste recycling, the use of sustainable materials and finishes, and energy-efficient mechanical and electrical system upgrades. Together, these improvements created a more environmentally responsible facility while enhancing long-term operational performance.

The result is a modern recreation center that enriches the student experience, promotes wellness, and provides flexible spaces for fitness, recreation, and community building across campus.

This project received multiple industry awards, including:

• 2010 Silver Hard Hat Award for Outstanding Sports & Recreation Project from Mountain States Construction Magazine
• LEED Gold Certification, 2010