LSU University Recreation's (UREC) newly renovated Student Recreation Center has emerged as a vibrant hub of health and wellness on campus, following a meticulous three-year renovation and expansion plan. This impressive 250,000-square-foot facility is now a testament to the university's commitment to promoting personal wellness and meeting the growing demand for expanded recreation programs.

The core philosophy behind the UREC facility is simple yet profound: "healthy building for healthy bodies." This guiding principle informed every aspect of the center's redesign, from its layout to its choice of materials. The result is a space that not only serves its functional purpose but also captivates students, drawing inspiration from the university's brand identity through its design, colour palette, and material selection.

HOK, a renowned global design, architecture, engineering, and planning firm, played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life. They meticulously considered every element, including the wire mesh material for the railing infill panels, to ensure that the UREC facility would truly stand out. Their choice was Linford Wovenpanel®, a versatile mesh pattern that adds an elegant touch to the center's overall design.

Linford WovenpanelHOK | A Global Design, Architecture, Engineering and Planning Firmis characterized by its traditional square mesh design with a contemporary twist, making it adaptable for a wide range of architectural structures. What sets it apart is its unique crimp, featuring straight sections of wire with highly defined crimps at the points of intersection. This not only enhances its aesthetics but also provides unmatched durability and strength, capable of withstanding heavy use.

This woven wire mesh pattern does more than just look good; it prioritizes safety as well. It offers substantial fall protection, which is essential in a facility like the UREC Student Recreation Center, where the well-being of students is of paramount importance.

The Recreation Center is a shining example of how thoughtful design and careful material selection can transform a space into a vibrant center for health and wellness. The university's commitment to fostering personal wellness and recreation has been realized in this state-of-the-art facility, and students now have access to a flexible, connected environment that inspires and supports their well-being. The UREC facility, designed with a "healthy building for healthy bodies" philosophy, has set a new standard for campus recreation, making it a place where students can celebrate their well-being and embark on exciting outdoor adventures.