Princeton University, Class of 1986 Fitness and Wellness Center
Princeton, New Jersey
In Collaboration with DIGSAU
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Fitness Conditioning Space, Multi-Use Studios, Student Lounge, Renovation of Existing Pool, Outdoor Fitness Courtyard, Outdoor Court
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Structural: LERA
Mechanical / Electrical: Vanderweil
Civil: Langan
Landscape: Field Operations -
2023 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Philadelphia: Honor Award (Unbuilt)
2023 World Architecture Festival (WAF) Awards: Future Project Shortlist (Education)
This renovation and addition transforms Princeton University’s venerable Dillon Gym into an inviting athletics, recreation, and wellness environment that breaks down barriers to participation. Extensive consultation with the university community significantly influenced the redesign of the facility, which had long been used for all campus recreation programming. A primary priority identified was an improved and more inclusive layout: despite having undergone renovations and upgrades over the years, the existing 1947 building remained comprised of offset stories of primarily inaccessible and disconnected spaces. The renovation’s planning dramatically clarifies circulation and provides access for all.
Recognizing that key areas of the building were underutilized (primarily 16 squash courts), the design team creatively reconfigured these with new programming, thus reducing the amount of new construction required for the project by 65% as compared to the original design brief.
A new pedestrian-friendly and fully accessible entrance on the centre’s north side adds a landscaped plaza forecourt and frames the historic clock tower just off Elm Drive, a main north-south route through campus.
As a nod to its history, wooden squash court walls are repurposed as millwork and furniture pieces throughout the facility.
At night, the addition transforms into a vibrant marker of campus recreation, illuminating the flurry of activity that extends late into the night.
The 2-storey addition is a pavilion nestled in the rejuvenated Dillon Courtyard. The upper level of its exterior is wrapped with glazing and a crafted pattern of fins with ornate screens of Muntz metal – reading as a singular room on top of a masonry plinth with panoramic garden views.
The design also retains an existing gymnasium, aquatics centre, and fitness space with upgrades to infrastructure and finishes.
The renovation of the previously underused Dillon Court provides a new basketball court and landscaping that creates an outstanding hangout space.
