Projects » University Of Kansas

UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS
LAWRENCE, KS

Working with Treanor Architects in Lawrence, Kansas, Peterson Architects designed a new boathouse for the University of Kansas. The project is located in Burcham Park in North Lawrence on the Kansas River. The new building provides Lawrence, also known as the River City, with a vibrant new connection to the river.

The building is designed in accordance with FEMA regulations to withstand flooding, which is a common occurrence on the river. It is set back carefully amongst a cottonwood grove to avoid overwhelming the park’s open space, but was also sited to minimize the number of trees that needed to be removed.

The boathouse includes lockers and showers, a multifunction team room, a training room, and four boat bays. The building’s public spaces, including the dramatic team room, are oriented to take advantage of expansive views of the river. These spaces are located in a broad glass volume, protected by a deeply overhanging roof. Decks on the east and north side of the building address the river.

Photography by Steve Swalwell