Les Chater Family YMCA & Turner Park Library

Location: Hamilton, ON

Client: City of Hamilton

Year of Completion: 2009

Final Construction Cost: $17,600,000

Architect of Record: Shore Tilbe Irwin & Partners

Design Consultant: Garwood-Jones & Hanham Architects

Situated in the border of three of Hamilton’s South Mountain neighbourhoods, on the divide between suburban development and green fields, the Les Chater Family YMCA is an important new addition to these ever-developing communities – part of a city-led effort to provide a new community hub to the growing population in the area.
More than just a gym, the Les Chater Family YMCA forms part of the much larger Hamilton South Mountain Complex which includes the YMCA’s aquatic centre, gym, health enhancement area, change rooms, mutli-use areas, child care centre, and café – as well as a police station, skate park, playground, and library. Throughout the complex, a similar architectural vocabulary and scale is used – helping unify the distinct elements of the site.

 

Architecturally, the YMCA and library are envisioned as a single building – both programs separated by a central circulation spine which allows framed views into both the pool and reading rooms. The café acts as a mediating program between both areas of the building, and additional seating spills out from the library to provide a shared space for conversation and gathering.
Inside, the YMCA’s success lies in its ability to provide the perfect facilities for sport and play without drawing excessive attention to extravagant architectural prowess. Throughout the complex, light is carefully regulated through the use of clerestory windows – a solution that provides both privacy and light. Rooms vary in height to accommodate the diverse programming – from single storey to three storeys in height. A warm but durable material palette makes the spaces welcoming but easy to maintain.

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185 Young Street
Hamilton, Ontario
L8N 1V9

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Tel.(905) 525-9000

Fax. (905) 523-7600

Email: office@invizij.ca