After my last check in for module 4, I knew that my climbing center was going to be on a larger scale of 35,000 square feet. The main consideration from the psychometric chart was regarding heating. I wanted to continue to make direct heat gain and passive heating a main concern with my design, working alongside the incorporation of natural light in the climbing space. There were several inspirations I found in terms of current climbing spaces in the United States.
Within the climbing/bouldering center, I want to incorporate several types of spaces:
- advanced bouldering- this space should be large enough to host many people, as well as give each user a lot of space for a great workout
- beginner/intermediate bouldering- this space should be open and large to hold as many people as possible who want to free climb
- climbing walls area (55’ walls)- this space needs to be quite large in order to fit in the wall structures as well as walkability and ventilation.
- office- this space does not need to be very big because it is mainly for paperwork and for managerial operations
- event room (parties, events, etc)- this room should be large enough to fit a group of 30 children for birthday parties, or 20 adults for corporate functions
- rentals desk- this space should be big enough to combine with rental equipment storage
- information/ check-in desk- this space does not need to be very big. It should comfortably host 2-4 people as well as a few computers
- men’s and women’s locker rooms (including showers and toilets)- these spaces should be able to host up to 30 people at once for storage and changing
- storage rooms- these closets need to be big enough to store equipment like crash pads, harnesses, shoes, cleaning equipment, climbing holds, and even maintenance equipment.
- workout area- this area needs to be a decent size for comfortable movement, and proper ventilation while working out.
- cafe- this area includes seating, cafe, and food prep. It will extend the northern part of the climbing area to allow for good views from every angle.
- outside deck area for cafe- This will be placed on the outer part of the advanced bouldering area and is located on the south facing wall to allow for views of the creek!
By utilizing the south facing wall for the climbing areas, I will be able to use passive heating throughout the spaces and lessen the need for electricity powered heating. I also really enjoy the open concept of using the main climbing area as a stretch over two floors, and having a balcony by the cafe to look down into the climbing area while relaxing in the seating area. This cafe seating space could be a great asset for parents watching their children from above. The restrooms would be located in the locker rooms similar to that of many gyms. The beginner/intermediate bouldering section would be located on the first floor to be closer to the rentals and climbing wall area, while the advanced bouldering area would be on the second floor. This is because many advanced climbers have their own equipment like shoes and would not need to rent anything from the desk.
Inspiration 1: Vertical Endeavors (Minneapolis location)
The design of this climbing space is ideal for my own space. Not only does it incorporate natural light, but the actual walls are modern in their design, and use natural tones to give the “outdoors” feel within the enclosed space. I also like that the locker rooms, rentals, and office areas are in the middle of the entire building. The high ceilings are a huge piece to my climbing center and are vital to the outdoor effect in the gym itself.
Inspiration 2: Central Rock Gym
I really love the natural lighting in this space, as well as the open concept. The climbing center has multiple levels that can observe each other. I do think that the climbing walls could be much higher, and am not sure if they are mixing the skill levels in each space, but would prefer to separate the spaces based on experience level.
Inspiration 3: Biofit Gym Spaces
Incorporating green space into the climbing center is crucial to allow for the outdoor effect in the space. I was inspired by the Biofit gym spaces that exist currently. Green space within a gym has many health and mental benefits for efficiency as well as ventilation in an enclosed space. I love the incorporation of natural wood and lighting as well. These are concepts I will to include. The first photo in specific is what I will model my workout area after.
Inspiration 4: Benchmark Climbing Gym
Lastly, the Benchmark climbing gym in Berkeley is known for its modern design and incorporation of natural light. I do appreciate the open concept of the space, but do not like how industrial the space feels due to the darker walls and ceilings in some oft he bouldering areas.
The link to my space budget is here:
Below is the rough sketch of my building. As a change from last check-in, I will be adding a second level that looks out to the taller climbing walls, compared to the one level with high ceilings.
