In this episode of the Supplier Voice podcast, Emily Parris, an associate principal and architect at Sasaki, discusses how campus recreation and wellness spaces are evolving to better support today’s students through inclusive design, flexibility and community-centered experiences. Drawing from her work with Sasaki and campuses across the country, she explains how recreation facilities are increasingly viewed as essential student-life hubs that support mental health, belonging and overall well-being rather than solely a place for physical exercise.
Parris shares how students today are seeking welcoming, adaptable environments where they can engage at their own comfort level, and why campus rec departments are rethinking everything from lighting and acoustics to circulation patterns and transparency within facilities. Parris also highlights how institutions are moving beyond traditional accessibility standards to create spaces that better support neurodiverse students and reduce intimidation around campus rec participation.
This conversation also explores:
- Why inclusive recreation design now extends beyond ADA compliance to include sensory-friendly spaces, user autonomy and environments that reduce social intimidation.
- How campuses are using glass walls, natural light and open sightlines to make recreation facilities feel more approachable and welcoming for hesitant users.
- Towson University’s aquatics center policy shift that allows students to casually engage with the pool — even wearing everyday clothing like jeans — to lower barriers to participation.
- The rise of flexible, multiuse spaces within campus rec centers as trends evolve from mindfulness programming to unexpected activities.
- Planning considerations around durable infrastructure, adaptable layouts and thoughtful circulation, and how they can help facilities remain functional for decades despite changing student interests.
- Why wellness spaces should also prioritize joy, balance and social interaction through elements like therapy dogs, lounges, gaming spaces and food offerings alongside traditional fitness programming.
- The importance of integrating faculty, staff and community members into campus recreation spaces to maximize engagement, create stronger campus connections and support revenue opportunities.
