Lafayette Jefferson High School

LAFAYETTE JEFF NATATORIUM Lafayette Jefferson High School opened its 29,500 square foot natatorium Jan. 28, 2020. The facility features a competition pool, diving well, and spectator seating for 450 people. It contains a 25-yard, 8-lane competition pool combined with a diving well with one 3-meter dive board and two 1-meter dive boards. The diving well is separated from the competition pool by a movable bulkhead that holds the competition pool starting platforms. The spectator seating is elevated to a second level with lockers and showers underneath. The space is programmed to accommodate dryland training for swimmers, learn-to-swim programs, high school physical education classes, lifeguard training, masters swimming for adults, scuba training, and kayaking. The pool area and locker rooms feature generous natural light provided through clerestory windows and vertical ribbon windows. Insulated translucent panels soften the daylight and prevent unwanted glare on the pool water surface. They also screen unwanted views to the interior spaces. A deep roof overhang further prevents direct sun glare on the pool surface. The facility also has locker rooms that serve as the home for the Bronchos boys and girls swimming and diving teams, offices for the coaching staffs and a classroom for education and team meetings. The 3-dimensional façade visually reduces the massive scale of the building. The exterior panels enliven the façade, with changing lighting throughout the day. This dynamic façade is reminiscent of water reflections, expressing the aquatic activities inside. The wave-form entrance roof plays on that aquatic theme as well while emphasizing the main entrance. The new Jefferson Natatorium makes a distinctive visual statement, making it an easily identifiable landmark.