Working closely with the City of Gaithersburg Department of Recreation, Maginniss + del Ninno Architects developed the program for the new Olde Town Youth Center. The primary objectives were to provide an exemplary youth-oriented activity center and demonstrate to the community sustainable design strategies that would also qualify the building for LEED certification.

Ground coupled heat pumps for heating and cooling, photovoltaic arrays, and super insulation are three of the main sustainable design strategies employed. Additionally, low sloped vegetated roofs are showcased on two of Gaithersburg’s main streets. Above all, the center provides a lively interior environment with natural lighting, views, and an abundance of fresh air.

One of the featured activity areas inside the center is a mixing and recording studio for the youth/clients together with an associated computer and study area on the north side of the building. Construction for the 6,500 square foot recreation building for the City of Gaithersburg was completed in the late summer of 2009 and is LEED NC Platinum.