Dover YMCA
Interior Renovations
Coordination Key in Keeping Space Safe & Functional During Fast-Paced Lobby Renovation
Problem
The lobby of the Dover YMCA was beginning to show its age. Dim lighting and worn finishings did not impart a motivating welcome message to patrons. “Traffic jams” were starting to become a problem as the layout was not conducive to the increased flow of people.
Administration wanted to overhaul the entrance area, lobby, and hospitality station to make a better first impression to guests and increase the function of the space.
The challenge was that major renovations needed to be completed in a tight timeframe while causing minimal disruption to patrons.
Solution
Keeping the lobby safe and functional through renovation required constant communication between architecture and engineering teams. Because StudioJAED has both architects and engineers in-house, the teams were able to work in tandem to make critical decisions quickly.
StudioJAED kept the project on schedule with minimal disruption to business through:
- Interviews with the administration and front-desk staff to understand work-related challenges of the space. This communication was crucial in informing design decisions.
- Coordinating regular status meetings with administration and third-party contractors to keep the project moving forward.
- Providing same-day mechanical engineering and electrical expertise on-site to ensure contractors remained on schedule.
StudioJAED architects designed a contemporary, bright, welcoming entrance and hospitality station. The newly designed lobby and entrance area features:
- New ceiling, wall, and floor finishes
- More consistent quality of interior finishings, color, and pattern throughout lobby and adjacent spaces
- Casework and furniture that can sustain high-traffic usage
- LED lighting that brightens the space while being energy efficient
- Hospitality station with improved circulation and sightlines for staff to effectively monitor the space
Phase II of the Dover YMCA renovation is currently in progress. StudioJAED is designing a complete locker room replacement. The new locker rooms will address security and privacy concerns, and improve functionality of family bathrooms and changing rooms.
Impact
The new YMCA lobby area was completed on time and on budget due to the StudioJAED’s disciplined communication between in-house team members, YMCA administration, and third party vendors. Careful coordination with outside contractors kept the project moving forward while keeping the space functional for patrons.
The newly redesigned entrance area, lobby, and hospitality station create an inviting new space to welcome the community to the Dover YMCA.
Not only does the space create a better first impression, its improved layout smooths traffic flow and functionality for guests and employees.