Clarion University Begins Major Gym Makeover

CLARION, Pa. — A groundbreaking ceremony was recently held at Clarion University in western Pennsylvania for the renovation of Tippin Gymnasium, the school’s primary NCAA athletic venue.

Upon completion, the 155,000-square-foot complex will better connect to the surrounding campus and community with a more open and transparent building design. Upgrades to the existing gymnasium will include a new entrance and lobby, comprehensive revamp of the basketball courts and seating, natatorium renovation with a new combination swimming/diving pool, expanded wrestling areas, a new weight room, new locker rooms and restrooms and a new auxiliary gymnasium.

The project was designed by a joint venture between DLA+ Architecture & Interior Design of Pittsburgh, Pa., and GUND Partnership of Cambridge, Mass. The early design goal was to elevate the facility to contemporary standards, bring additional natural light into the venue and optimize student socializing. Additionally, the new gym is designed to better serve student-athletes and the entire intercollegiate athletic program as well as grow fresh opportunities for physical fitness, nutrition and wellness programming. The project is designed to achieve LEED Silver certification, and is slated to be finalized in September 2019.

DLA+ is a full-service architecture and interior design firm dedicated to providing Strategic Architecture solutions through a collaborative and integrated approach. GUND Partnership works across the country with leading academic and cultural institutions to explore the power and potential of the built environment.

The project cost is $42.7 million and it is being funded by the Pennsylvania Department of General Services.