Intergenerational Recreation Facility

Borrelli + Partners was commissioned by Indian River County to provide full architectural design and construction administration services for the new $9.4 million, 37,600-square-foot Intergenerational Recreation Facility, also known as the iG Center. Conceived as a vibrant social hub, the facility responds to the County’s growing demand for a modern indoor recreation destination that supports wellness, lifelong learning, and meaningful social connection for residents of all ages.

Intergenerational programs serve as powerful social vehicles, intentionally bringing together people from different generations through planned, mutually beneficial activities. The iG Center was thoughtfully designed to support these programs by fostering interaction, inclusion, and shared experiences between older and younger generations. Through flexible spaces and diverse programming, the facility encourages participants to share knowledge, talents, and resources, strengthening individual relationships while enriching the broader community.

The building program was carefully developed to balance flexibility, inclusivity, long-term sustainability, and cost efficiency. The design accommodates a wide range of recreational, educational, and social uses, supporting activities such as low-impact exercise, yoga and chair yoga, art classes, volleyball, pickleball, basketball, adult and youth leagues, and senior wellness programs. In addition to daily programming, the facility offers rooms capable of hosting events for up to 1,690 patrons, making it an ideal venue for corporate meetings, nonprofit seminars, civic organization gatherings, weddings, receptions, banquets, and large community celebrations.

The project was envisioned as a two-phase facility organized around two primary programmed components. Phase One, which was constructed, includes the main public lobby, intergenerational multi-purpose program spaces, media rooms, administrative offices, and a 15,814-square-foot Multi-Activity Courts (MAC) Gym featuring two courts and spectator seating. The MAC Gym was designed to accommodate both recreational and competitive sports, as well as large auditorium-style events and special programs.

Between the two connected building forms, the design introduces a public courtyard and outdoor veranda, creating a welcoming indoor-outdoor environment that supports social gathering, informal interaction, and contemplative use. This central courtyard serves as the heart of the facility, reinforcing the project’s mission to connect people across generations in a comfortable and engaging setting.

Phase Two was planned to expand the facility with a second two-court MAC Gym, a supporting fitness center, additional office space, locker and shower facilities, and utility areas. Borrelli + Partners completed full design documentation for this phase; however, Indian River County ultimately elected not to proceed with construction at that time.

Overall, the Indian River County Intergenerational Recreation Center represents a forward-thinking investment in community health, inclusivity, and social connection. Through its adaptable design and broad range of programming, the iG Center successfully supports the County’s mission to provide a state-of-the-art recreational environment that serves both the young and the young at heart.