University School of Milwaukee, Athletic and Convocation Center
Milwaukee, WisconsinTo broaden it's appeal and accommodate growing needs, University School of Milwaukee, a private, K-12 college preparatory school has embarked on a program to match exemplary academics with a strong athletic program. The project was originally conceived of by a parents group; HGA provided the initial planning and pre-design services to create a fund-raising package and to help the parents build enthusiasm for the endeavor with the administration. As part of a team creating new facilities throughout the campus, HGA considered various siting options for the building. A 1,000-seat hockey rink in the winter, the flexible facility can be used for several sports and as a campus gathering place throughout the year. A timber roof structure spans the main space, which is ringed by a running track. A fitness center overlooks the main space and the locker rooms are designed to accommodate the varied needs of the many sports using the facility. A part of the complex includes a swimming pool; the first home venue for teams that have had to share pools with other schools. HGA's concept emulates the style and materials of the existing buildings; retaining a unified look for the campus.