Gone are the days of navigating the Woodson YMCA through a narrow maze of dimly lit and twisted hallways, hidden stairwells and distant program areas. Here to stay is the fully remodeled Woodson YMCA with a centrally developed, multi-level main street that provides a visual and physical connection from one end of the facility to the other. This main street connects members to conveniently located program areas and functional social spaces all while infusing natural light and a connection to outdoor energy. We have been working with the YMCA to achieve this extraordinary outcome for members, staff and the greater Wausau community since the design phase of the comprehensive addition and remodel for which Ghidorzi has served as master planner, architect, general contractor and interior designer under our design build model.
The new, two-story connecting link creates one cohesive building with a main street configuration. Its transformational benefits include the following:
Reception Area
Social Court
Improved circulation
Members enter into the bright and open lobby space which provides a welcoming check-in experience. Surrounding the lobby are generously sized hallways to promote visual connections among multi-use spaces and offer easy access to The Landing, Aspirus Fieldhouse, elevated track and energy of the adjoining Social Court.
Social Court
Central Staircase – Mezzanine Level
Public Spaces for Socializing and Drop Zones
The Social Court is the heart of the building, designed for members to connect with each other and decompress after a workout. This bright, airy space features multiple seating and tabletop options and a vibrant mezzanine level, complete with artwork, a skylight and central staircase that connects the two levels. The Social Court is bordered by complimentary program spaces including multi-purpose rooms, group exercise studios, educational classrooms, offices and child activity areas.
Gymnastics Center
Gymnastics Viewing Area
The thriving gymnastics program of the Woodson YMCA finally now has ample space for spectators to go along with its fully remodeled gymnasium. The connecting link widens to provide spacious viewing areas into the gymnastics gym on both the first floor and upper level.
Connecting Link – Lower Level
Engaging Architectural Design
The architecture and all-glass material selection of the connecting link compliments that of the Aspirus Field House and existing structure, adding cohesiveness to the overall building design, bridging the gap of multiple building additions that were added over time. Natural light energizes the corridor and provides colorful views of the surrounding daycare playgrounds.
Connecting Link
Overhead of Connecting Link and Playgrounds
Now that the project is complete, the extent of our pre-planning and collaboration with the Woodson YMCA team can be clearly seen, appreciated and experienced. Transformation of the YMCA’s navigation, program areas and functional space across all levels of the building is truly a win for members, staff and the greater Wausau community!
Read about the full scope and many other exciting aspects of this project here:
Designing a Hangout for Today’s Youth Just in Time for Back to School
The Woodson YMCA B.A. & Esther Greenheck Foundation Child Care Center Renovation is Now Complete
Woodson YMCA Shares Details of its Expansion and Modernization
