Toyota Indiana YMCA of Gibson County
This adaptive reuse project transforms a vacant elementary school into an inclusive, accessible environment where the entire community can maintain a balanced spirit, mind and body. The Toyota Indiana YMCA of Gibson County fills a need in the county for health and wellness, afterschool childcare, athletic practice, competition venues, event space and more. It’s a space designed for everyone.
The main level of the renovated building includes childcare space, teen space, a STEM zone and a lounge. The gymnasium is easily adaptable for basketball, volleyball and pickleball. To the south of the gym are two classroom spaces that house summer day camp. The renovated upper level includes a wellness area with exercise machines and weights, group exercise rooms, an area for functional wellness, and rentable space for a tenant that aligns with the YMCA mission.
An addition to the existing building houses a multitude of new spaces including an entry on the main level that opens into an expansive, two-story lobby with a new reception area to welcome patrons. In the center of the lobby is a monumental ramp that connects the main floor to the upper floor. A new cycling studio with windows overlooking the lobby is located at the top of the monumental ramp, creating a direct connection to the wellness space within the renovated building. Adjacent to the lobby is a multi-purpose room, offices, gathering areas including a coffee bar and a teaching kitchen where community members can learn about healthy cooking. The addition also includes a 25-yard, six-lane pool with two diving boards to serve competitive and recreational swimmers, dedicated women's and men’s locker rooms and a unisex locker room. While spectator seating is available inside the pool area, a raised viewing platform with seating and windows overlooking the pool is located within the expansive lobby to allow spectators to view activities within the pool.
The YMCA brand is reflected throughout the facility using vibrant and welcoming brand colors and graphics curated to reflect the mission of the YMCA. The new Toyota Indiana YMCA is a rejuvenated space for physical activity, community gatherings, and a renewed sense of belonging. This facility brings a new, dynamic use to an old building that will influence a positive change within the community.