Gillam Recreation Centre Redevelopment

Designed to meet the needs of residents for the next 50 years, the Gillam Recreation Centre boasts enhanced community programming, brand new amenities and a striking two-storey entry hall. Sustainability and improved energy performance were central to the design solution, achieved through a new high-performance envelope, state-of-the-art building systems, and a modern heat-recovery system that re-distributes energy generated from the ice plant to heat the rest of the building.

One of the key priorities was to enhance the appeal of the original pre-engineered structure with a more contemporary and inviting exterior appearance. Approximately 10,000 sq.ft. of the existing building was demolished including the main entry vestibule and replaced with a heavily glazed two-story entrance addition that floods the space with natural light while forming a stronger connection to the outdoors. The new entry is comprised of low-maintenance aluminum cladding that evokes a natural wood character, adding visual interest while breaking up the original building’s pre-engineered appearance.

Inside, the atrium serves as a warm, light-filled central gathering space and includes a feature staircase up to the second floor. The existing curling rink was modified to create more room, with new and enhanced changerooms that also service the adjacent hockey rink. The hockey rink was upgraded with heat recovery system, as well as new brine pipes for improved ice production, and a rubber running track that extends around the perimeter. Additional amenities include a variety of multipurpose activity areas, flexible gymnasium, expanded exercise facilities, youth centre/lounge, children’s play area, as well as a contemporary library space in the heart of the building.