RATIO Architects, Inc. 

Location: Raleigh, North Carolina

With growing numbers of young professionals moving to downtown Raleigh, YMCA of the Triangle envisioned an entirely new environment programmed to serve the needs of this emerging demographic. Located in a recently revitalized building, the 22,960 SF Poyner YMCA returns the Y to the city center for the first time since the 1970s.

The majority of programmed space (including the wellness area, fitness studios, and locker rooms) is located below grade, bound by the existing structure. Sculptural stairs connect this challenging layout and bring daylight to all three levels of the facility; immersive graphic walls add visual connection between levels.