AIA Chicago Home Design Awards 1998 Home
Distinguished Building Award
Fernwood Park Natatorium
Fernwood Park Natatorium

The architects achieved high drama on a low budget by sculpting the roofline of this swimming facility in the southside community of Roseland into sweeping kinetic forms. A continuous band of energy-efficient translucent panels admits abundant daylight and eliminates the need for conventional windows, which would be inappropriate for this vandalism-plagued neighborhood. An addition to an existing field house, the facility houses a 25-meter pool with a zero-depth end for children and ADA accessibility. "Low budget, tough site, wonderful cause," summed up one juror, while all were enthusiastic about the building's sculptural quality.

Fernwood Park Natatorium
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