Finding the perfect architecture and design firm for your recreation center renovation or expansion project can be a challenge. There are several factors to consider such as, experience, know-how, chemistry, company culture and proven track record.
Ohlson Lavoie Collaborative (OLC) is one of the top architecture and design firms in the country. OLC is comprised of planners and designers who are committed to delivering stellar architecture, interior design and aquatic design but also client-centered service.
OLC partners with universities, medical wellness facilities, recreation centers and health clubs to assist in providing opportunities for people to improve their overall health and well-being.
Recently, OLC partnered with Minot State University to build the school’s signature Wellness Center, which opened in the fall of 2012. The 60,000-square-foot Wellness Center features a 30-foot climbing wall, multi-activity court, basketball courts, group exercise room, conference rooms and weight rooms.
Paul Brekke, from the Minot State University Student Wellness Center, shared what he liked best about working with OLC.
CR: How were you introduced to OLC and why did you decide to partner with them?
Paul: OLC and EAPC collaborated on our project. Their history and experience of working on these kinds of projects drew us to them.
CR: What are the benefits to your students as a result of this partnership?
Paul: The benefits to our students and rec center of this partnership has been a very well though-out and designed building that worked within all of the moving parts of our project — new athletic complex, budget issues, community going through a flood, building into a hill and the proximity of connecting our building with the Dome and the newly remodeled Swain Hall with a skywalk.
It has given our campus a place where students are able to hang out in their free time, meet new lifelong friends and learn more about themselves away from the classroom. This gives our students the opportunity to live a more active and healthy lifestyle while they are here and hopefully take these same healthy habits with them when they graduate and go out into the real world.
CR: What else can you tell other rec professionals about the benefits of working with OLC?
Paul: OLC is very professional in everything that they do. They take the time to meet with all the stakeholders,get their feedback and input and then use their experience and resources to build a place that all parties will take great pride in. They know the industry very well and will get you a great finished product.
