TREC – Training Recreation Education Center

Newark, USA

Photo © Jeffrey Totaro

Architects: ikon.5 architects

Location: Newark, USA
Year: 2016
Area: 22,000 sf
Program: • Gymnasium • Fitness & Yoga • Childcare • Instructional Kitchen • Classrooms • Community Meeting Rooms • Study Commons

Motivated to provide vital education, recreation and training services to the underserved citizenry of Newark, New Jersey, the Newark Housing Authority tapped us to design a facility that would be a social collector; a place where neighbors could gather, exercise, and receive training to improve their chances for gainful employment in a rapidly transforming digital-based economy. Our design harnesses transparency to convey a sense of welcome and openness in the community. The luminous container is a beacon of hope and a pleasant place to gather, learn and play. The building’s triangular form results from the shifted urban grid where it meets Weequahic Park. Its bespoke design and full height windows allow passersby to witness the energy and rich roster of activities housed within and know that a substantive investment has been made in their future. The Training Recreation and Education Center can reinvent its neighborhood, reinvigorate the citizenry, and ultimately change their future by providing them access to the programs and tools they need to succeed in a building that engenders productivity, connectedness and positive change.