Samford University Unveils New Recreation and Wellness Complex
Birmingham, AL – Excitement is brewing on the Samford University campus as the new F. Page Seibert Hall, a state-of-the-art recreation and wellness complex, prepares to open its doors on September 30. This facility, which is a part of a broader campus improvement plan, reflects the university’s commitment to enhancing student and faculty life through modern fitness and wellness amenities.
Campus Improvement Efforts
The recreation complex is the first significant step in a two-year plan valued at $85 million that aims to upgrade various aspects of the university campus. Construction began in April 2023, and the results promise to offer a range of amenities that cater to the diverse needs of the campus community. Spread over 165,000 square feet and four stories high, the complex showcases an impressive list of features.
Facility Features
The new complex includes courts for basketball, racquetball, and pickleball, as well as dedicated studios for popular group exercise classes such as spin, yoga, Pilates, Zumba, and barre core. Fitness enthusiasts will have access to a plethora of strength stations, free weights, and areas designated for CrossFit, cardio, and circuit training. In addition, an elevated jogging track and turf areas provide ample space for various athletic activities.
For those looking for more than just traditional fitness, the facility also boasts a billiards area, a cozy coffeehouse, and a 24-hour snack market. Notably, a dedicated esports lounge will be a hub for students interested in video gaming, marking the university’s introduction of a new video gaming program.
Design and Development
Nick Madsen, executive director of campus recreation at Samford, led a team that visited over 20 major universities to research their recreational facilities. This exploration helped inform the design of the new complex, ensuring it meets current trends and preferences for student recreation. “We were seeking to understand what those schools liked, what they didn’t like, and what they wished they had in their facilities,” Madsen explained.
The architectural firm Davis Architects, known for its longstanding relationship with the university, played a vital role in the project, blending modern elements with the existing campus aesthetic. “Davis Architects created a dynamic plan that integrates the old and the new into our campus aesthetic while transforming the interior of buildings to meet the needs and desires of our students,” noted Samford President Beck Taylor.
Sustainability Goals
Samford University is concurrently pursuing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for the new facility. This initiative reflects a commitment to improving indoor air quality and enhancing the sustainability of building operations. “We hope this building speaks not only to the wellness of our students, but also to our commitment to a well world,” Taylor remarked, emphasizing the significance of sustainability in this grand project. A special spot is being reserved inside the entrance for the newly anticipated LEED plaque once certification is achieved.
What’s Next for Samford?
In addition to the new recreation complex, the university has exciting plans on the horizon as part of its comprehensive campus master plan. Upcoming projects include an upgraded dining experience, four new residence halls set to open in 2025, and a 550-space parking deck to accommodate the growing campus population.
The opening of the F. Page Seibert Hall is a significant milestone for Samford University, and it signals a bright future for student wellness and community engagement at the institution. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to sustainability, the university is poised to enhance the college experience for its students and faculty alike.
