A Town Center Reclaimed

Mill Valley Community Center w/ BSA Architects, San Francisco

(Mill Valley, CA.)

Sited on top of an inert landfill, the Community Center is a prime example of brownfield development, whereby "damaged" land is renewed for public use. The complex is contained within two buildings conceived as a series of barn-like sheds, one which contains a reception hall and meeting rooms while the other houses a swimming pool and small gym. Complementing this facility are outdoor playing fields leading to nearby trails and bike paths.

Furthermore, the Center is designed with a variety of users in mind. Besides wheelchair-accessible restrooms, there are elevators, locker rooms with roll-in shower stalls, and a lift device at the swimming pool. Signage throughout the buildings is also provided in Braille. In this sense, the project is truly community-oriented, both in spirit and in physical accommodation.