Middle Branch Fitness & Wellness Center

Baltimore, MD

Details
Gymnasium, natatorium, indoor splash pad, fitness area, multipurpose studio
Maker space, classroom, support spaces
Event lawn, turf field accommodating football, lacrosse, and soccer
Sustainable design features
Owner
Baltimore City Department of Recreation & Parks
Services
Programming, Site Analysis, Community Involvement, Sustainable Design, Interior Design, Full Design Services, Building Information Modeling

Uniquely situated at the end of the Gwynns Falls Trail, the new Middle Branch Fitness & Wellness Center is designed to foster connections within the Cherry Hill community and greater region.

An iconic beacon formed by two volumes—one high, one low—joined by a translucent nexus, the building links the community to Reedbird Park by creating a pedestrian axis that offers interior and exterior space for interaction and recreation.

Entering from the community plaza, visitors are immediately welcomed into an active, light-filled central circulation and fitness space that expands to provide views to the park as visitors move through the center. Located within the high volume, the multipurpose gymnasium is sized for basketball and volleyball while the natatorium offers lap and leisure style pools and is connected to the outdoor community pool. The lower volume houses a community classroom and multi-purpose fitness room with views of the park and a flexible maker space that benefits from access to the outdoor plaza.

Awards

AIA Maryland Excellence in Design Public Building of the Year
AIA Maryland Excellence in Design Merit Award
AIA Baltimore Social Equity Award

On the second floor, an elevated walking/running track loops through the gymnasium, natatorium, and fitness space linking the three building volumes together. Open to below, the track activates the building delivering views out to the surrounding park and waterfront and within to all the activity inside. 

Views from first level
Views from first level
Views from track
Views from track