The building is a replacement building for the original dining hall and kitchen that was constructed in 1952. After an initial assessment of the existing facility, it was determined that the facility had reached the end of its useful life and a new facility was required. The project included a collaborative and engaging process where the design team worked closely with the YMCA and Camp Director to achieve the building design. The design team listened to the current and future needs of the client and developed the building design that compliments the existing buildings on campus while setting a new standard for future buildings constructed on the campus. The building is a simple program that includes a large dining hall, large commercial kitchen and support spaces. The exciting part about the project and the opportunity presented to the design team was the ability to develop and include exterior gathering and social spaces. The design team created several outdoor spaces including a new amphitheater facing the lake and a small programs courtyard between the dining hall area and the kitchen. The design focused on using exterior materials that exist on the campus including exterior grade plywood and architectural roof shingles. The design team introduced new materials including charred wood and larger expanses of glazing to connect the interior to the exterior with views.
YMCA Camp Kanata Dining Hall
Category
Design Awards > New Construction/Substantial Renovation > New Construction/Substantial Renovation under 15,000SF
Description
Camp Kanata is a 150-acre camp site operated by the YMCA of the Triangle. It serves as a day and overnight camp which can accommodate several hundred children at any given time. The Dining Hall is a 14,000 square foot facility that sits well in its context. The design team took cues from the language of the existing cabins and other structures on site to create a modern yet contextual aesthetic for the new building. The basic diagram is two A-frame structures linked by a glass connector. Site amenities are integrated into the design for camper use.