University of Delaware | Whitney Athletic Center

Project overview

On the ground floor of this 2-story facility, the Whitney Athletic Center houses a world-class athletic training and performance complex. Purpose-built to meet the diverse needs of student-athletes, the facility includes a hydrotherapy pool, sports medicine and rehabilitation suites, a spacious weight room, and a nutrition bar—all designed to optimize training, recovery, and overall well-being.

The adjacency of these facilities to the new academic spaces was intentional: previously, students traveled long distances from the main campus to reach off-site practice and training, creating disconnect.

The Whitney Athletic Center eliminates that divide, uniting academics and athletics under one roof. The design celebrates school spirit with sophisticated applications of Delaware’s bold colors, creating an environment that is energizing yet refined.

A dramatic communicating stair anchors the lobby, set against a striking installation of the iconic Blue Hen, welcoming students, athletes, and visitors with pride and energy.

Role

As Senior Interior Designer, I was instrumental in both shaping the design vision for the athletic spaces and in cultivating a strong, collaborative relationship with the University’s leadership. I guided design solutions that elevated the student-athlete experience, from functional training environments to vibrant community spaces. I worked hand-in-hand with the client to incorporate University of Delaware’s identity into the design—integrating school colors in a sophisticated way and ensuring the iconic Blue Hen feature created a powerful first impression. My role balanced design leadership with client engagement, ensuring the final facility reflected both the spirit of the University and the practical needs of its athletes and students.

Details