Nicholas Recreation center
University of Wisconsin – Madison

Workshop and HOK teamed with UW-Madison to transform the SERF from a popular, but dark, cramped, and confusing building into a bright, inviting, and open place that will promote well-being and health for students across the campus. In the words of the campus, it will be a hub that “inspires students, members, and the community to PLAY HARD. GET FIT. LIVE WELL.”

To fulfill this vision, Workshop and HOK reached out across the campus through a variety of creative workshops and interactive sessions. 

SERF’s urban surroundings afford a wealth of design opportunities. It will be a vital campus connector for nearby residence halls and Gordon Dining & Event Center and the Kohl Center and LaBahn Arena. A bold, glassy façade along Dayton Street will provide ample daylight and showcase the activity within, including a new multi-level running track. The building design creatively stacks gymnasium space over an Olympic-size swimming pool and multifunctional fitness areas, and will triple the current amount of cardio and strength training space. Its state-of-the-art training facilities will provide Badger teams, intramural athletes, and all Badgers seeking to improve their fitness and well-being with a winning edge.

Scope: 248,000 SF
Total Project Budget: $96,500,000
Project Location: Madison, Wisconsin
Anticipated Completion: Winter 2020
Partner: HOK