Opening its doors in July 2019, Rogers Partners led the Madison Square Boys & Girls Club on a journey to realize its vision for the next generation of Boys & Girls Clubs. The Club's rich history serving a diverse population and dedication to providing a safe, nurturing, and educational environment was a significant factor in the design vision.
The new Madison Square Boys & Girls Club facility in Upper Harlem provides a diverse mix of recreational and education spaces that serve the organization’s mission to foster wellness and success. National precedents were researched to design these traditional and non-traditional learning spaces, with special attention to design that excites teen members to encourage continued club involvement over time.
The program for the new clubhouse accommodates young people, ages 6-18 and includes multi-use athletic facilities, such as a 6,000 square foot gymnasium for basketball, volleyball, climbing, and other indoor sports; a rooftop play space for soccer; age-specific program spaces, such as a Teen Center; tutoring and quiet learning spaces; dance, performance, visual arts, music, and production studios; a screening room; digital media and technology labs; dining and gathering space; and offices for management and staff. The emphasis of the design is on generosity of space – for recreation, education, gathering, and play.
The design incorporates transparency – of material and program – to present the clubhouse as a special place to belong and participate. Apparent from the exterior and interior, the building’s organization centers around an open stair marked by glass-encased gathering spaces, connecting all levels visually and socially and bringing natural light deep into the site. The design incorporates innovative use of affordable, sustainable, and natural materials, including exposed concrete, perforated plywood panels in the gym, and acoustic panels made of recycled water bottles, creating a distinctive and inviting aesthetic.
Location: New York, NY | Completion: 2019 | Size: 45,000 SF | Client: Madison Square Boys & Girls Club
