2023 IOC IPC IAKS Architecture Prize
MAPLE RIDGE LEISURE CENTRE RENOVATION
RENEWED SPACES STRIKE A BALANCE BETWEEN THERAPY AND FUN Built in 1981, the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre (MRLC) was Western Canada’s first public aquatic and multi-use recreation centre. The aging infrastructure no longer met current accessibility standards and performance levels. The City of Maple Ridge engaged SHAPE Architecture for major renovations to the existing leisure pool and hot pool, including significant upgrades to the pool mechanical systems and a redesign of the change rooms, lobby, and reception. This high-use facility serves Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows residents, bringing in over 400,000 visitors each year.
JURY VERDICT Maple Ridge Leisure Centre Expansion is an exceptional project in many ways. It takes a building from the early Eighties and redevelops it with clarity and elegance. What is immediately apparent is a high level of design that is both architecturally attractive and significant in its response to universal accessibility. This project successfully deals with the more subtle aspects of the broader range of disabilities, instead of only looking at wheelchair access. The overall design of the renovated portions of the building are contemporary, elegant, simple and undoubtedly much a ppreciated and enjoyed by the users. The changing room redesign is gender-neutral and enhances the accessibility and inclusivity of the facility. The tile artwork was led by a local a rtist, but executed by the greater community. Maple Ridge Leisure Centre embodies sustainability at the core of the decision to renovate rather than demolish and rebuild. Inclusivity is a driving e lement in both the planning and c olour choices in the public areas. Elegance and simple architecture create an attractive a mbiance that can be e njoyed by all members of this community. 50
sb 5/2023