Grimm & Parker Logo
Grimm & Parker Logo

Nancy H. Dacek North Potomac Community Recreation Center

Rockville, Maryland

client

Montgomery County

size

49,000 sf

certification

LEED Gold

type

New Construction

Tucked into a mature forest and surrounded by preserved natural wetlands, the Nancy H. Dacek - North Potomac Community Recreation Center provides recreational and leisure activities for Rockville’s rapidly flourishing community. Large windows allow daylight to pour in while visitors enjoy views of Big Pines Park and local landscapes. Patrons can tour the myriad of sustainable features in this LEED Gold facility including an organic multi-purpose field, electric vehicle charging stations, ultra low-flow plumbing fixtures, and vegetative green roofs.

As a place for members of the community to connect with each other, the center offers a variety of structured programs such as culinary, art and pottery courses, senior programming, weight-lifting classes, and youth/sports leagues in very flexible spaces.

Biophilic Approach To Daylighting

The gymnasium and social hall are perched in the tree canopy and sunlight drenches the fitness center as the window wall overlooks the bees and butterflies pollinating the plants in the raingarden. 

Plenty of daylight illuminates the central spine and windows to the corridor from the activity spaces allow visitors to see the action.

G+P's staff, from principals to project designers, have been exceptional listeners … They are excellent collaborators, while at the same time pushing projects and owners toward more creative solutions.

Division Chief, Montgomery County Department of Recreation

Environmental Advocacy

Named in honor of Nancy H. Dacek, the late Montgomery County Council and Board of Elections member, who was a strong advocate for the environment.

Closing Thoughts

Recreation, arts, and leisure enveloped by nature in a park-like setting.