New community centre and library a gem for Markham (PHOTOS)

Oct 25 2018, 1:20 pm

A new community and recreation hub in Markham has only been open for a few months, and it is proving to be a flagship public space for the city.

Aaniin Community Centre & Library at 5665 14th Avenue spans 125,000-sq-ft of floor area, with an aquatic centre featuring a six-lane, 25-metre pool, a leisure pool with splash areas and lazy river, therapy pool, and hot tub.

Markham Aanlin Community Centre

Markham Aaniin Community Centre. (Perkins+Will)

There is also a large gymnasium with an elevated running track, fitness gym, studios, rock climbing wall, a two-storey public library branch, and unique programmed spaces, such as a multi-sensory room for children with developmental disabilities, teaching kitchen, and a creative Maker Space equipped with a 3D printer and laser cutter.

It also offers community health services and career training services to support Markham’s immigrant community.

All of these spaces are interconnected by a large indoor town square and communal atrium space with an amphitheatre-like setting that can host events and other programming.

Markham Aanlin Community Centre

Markham Aaniin Community Centre. (Perkins+Will)

The facility was designed by the local office of Chicago-based architectural firm Perkins+Will and constructed at a cost of $54 million. Markham’s large Asian community was extensively consulted, and elements of the building’s design – featuring warm wood materials – reflect the community’s culture.

Markham Aanlin Community Centre

Markham Aaniin Community Centre. (Perkins+Will)

Markham Aanlin Community Centre

Markham Aanlin Community Centre. (Perkins+Will)

Markham Aanlin Community Centre

Markham Aaniin Community Centre. (Perkins+Will)

Markham Aanlin Community Centre

Markham Aaniin Community Centre. (Perkins+Will)

Markham Aanlin Community Centre

Markham Aaniin Community Centre. (Perkins+Will)

Markham Aanlin Community Centre

Markham Aaniin Community Centre. (Perkins+Will)

See also
Kenneth ChanKenneth Chan

+ Architecture & Design
+ Urbanized
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