ARC/Architectural Resources Cambridge has been awarded a design project by the YMCA to design a 60,000 s/f community recreation center to replace the existing center at 38 Roxbury St.

The design of the new Keene Family YMCA is inspired by the historic farms that populate this area of New Hampshire. The building's massing and materials carefully articulate the region's barn vernacular. Incorporated in the design are gabled roofs, rich red corrugated siding reminiscent of vertical wood boarding, a heavy timber canopy, crisp white trim that consistently frames the windows and openings, and a grey metal roof.

"Within this building, the Keene community will find the full range of amenities expected from a modern recreational facility," said Philip Laird, AIA, LEED AP, principal-in-charge and president at ARC. The program will include a swimming pool, a therapy pool, a basketball court, an indoor track, gymnastics facilities, a climbing wall, adult and youth fitness areas, a child care center and community meeting and gathering spaces.