the designer’s sensitivity to scale, value, and “fit.” The thoughtful proportions of the great room with its natural materials in the high ceiling and its tall windows creates the sensation of working out in the cool shade of those magnificent trees surrounding the building. It should be noted that the careful placement of the structure on the site required the removal of only one tree, which happened to be diseased and subject to removal anyway. Further pursuit of a natural aesthetic resulted in ductwork being routed beneath the floor, allowing for exposed ceiling structure and wood deck unencumbered by ducts. Even the mandatory fire suppression system has meticulously concealed piping that, though inconspicuous, still provides sprinkler heads the appropriate exposure for effective coverage in the event of fire. The precise alignment of the fixtures and built components along with the simple joinery of materials contribute to an overall serenity. Smooth Japanese stones in the locker area shower floors are placed with craftsman-like precision, providing users not only with non-slip surfaces but also soothing foot massages after a workout. On the lower level, a return to the warm natural stone and wood tones, and lighting in the dining area, contribute to a vibrant and enticing environment. As a natural complement to its campus, this state-of-the-art fitness center deepens the commitment of Northwood Club to its members. The peaceful setting tucked into rolling hills and surrounded by vegetation fosters the feeling of a resort — a quiet retreat from the noisy environment a few hundred feet away on Dallas’ busy city streets. From its layout to its views, the fitness center does what great buildings do; it makes you want to be there.
FIRST FLOOR 1 POOL DECK 2 THE TERRACE 3 KITCHEN 4 RESTROOM
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MASONRY UNITS/UNIT MASONRY WALL ASSEMBLIES: Featherlite (Dee Brown); NATURAL
LIMESTONE VENEER: Quality Stoneworks Quarry, Florence, TX (Blackson Brick); CAST STONE :
Advanced Cast Stone; HEAVY TIMBER FRAMING: DaFor Heavy Timber; LAMINATES: Nevamar; WATERPROOFING: Grace, Sonneborn; WATER REPELLANTS: Prosoco; BUILDING INSULATION : Owens Corning; ROOF/WALL PANELS: Petersen Aluminum; METAL PANEL CLADDING: Berbice Corp.; WOOD DOORS: VT
Industries; WOOD WINDOWS/GLASS: Marin Windows & Doors (BMC West); GYPSUM: ClarkWestern
Dan A. Killebrew, AIA, is a partner at FKP Architects in Dallas.
Building Systems, Georgia Pacific; TILE: Horizon Italian Tile; ACOUSTICAL CEILINGS: USG; WOOD CEILINGS: 9 Wood (Architectural Materials Inc); LAMINATE FLOORING: Shur-Step (W&W Distributing); PAINT/HIGH PERFORMANCE COATING : Sherwin Williams; SIGNAGE : Mohawk Sign Systems
7/8 2012
Texas Architect 59