Designing for Wellness Part 2: UVM Varsity Athletics
A Conversation with Tom Karlhuber on UVM’s On-Campus Multipurpose Center
INTRODUCTION
Following the successful completion of UVM’s new Rec and Wellness Center, the second phase of the On-Campus Multipurpose Center (OCMC) focused on elevating the experience for varsity athletes and enhancing the broader athletic infrastructure. In this continuation of our conversation, architect Tom Karlhuber shares insights into the final 11,000 square feet of renovations – from hydrotherapy and academic support spaces to upgraded locker rooms and media facilities. These additions represent another step forward in a phased transformation of the Patrick-Forbush-Gutterson (PFG) Athletic Complex, part of a broader, long-term vision that remains a priority for the university. With thoughtful design and strategic planning, these upgrades reinforce UVM’s commitment to wellness, performance, and student success.
PHASE TWO: SUPPORTING VARSITY ATHLETICS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Tracey: The final phase added over 11,000 square feet of renovations. What were the key components?
Tom: This last phase was really about rounding out the vision for the complex. We delivered a state-of-the-art hydrotherapy center, new office suites for both men’s and women’s hockey coaches, a sports television director’s suite, and academic support spaces for student-athletes. Each of these elements plays a role in elevating the experience for athletes, staff, and the broader university community.
Tracey: Let’s talk about the hydrotherapy center. What makes it unique?
Tom: It’s equipped with hot and cold plunge pools, a therapy pool with an underwater treadmill, and dedicated treatment areas. We worked closely with the sports medicine team to ensure the space supports a wide range of rehabilitation needs while maintaining a calming, restorative atmosphere.
Tracey: How did you approach the design of the new office suites for the hockey programs?
Tom: These suites were designed to foster collaboration and provide a professional environment for coaching staff. We included private offices, meeting rooms, and shared workspaces – all with direct access to the adjacent locker rooms and training areas and direct views to the ice. The goal was to streamline operations and create a cohesive hub for both men’s and women’s hockey.
Tracey: The Media Room and the Sports Television Director’s Suite both support team and broadcast functions. Can you explain how they differ?
Tom: Absolutely. The Media Room is located on the ground level and serves as a flexible space for team film study, coaching sessions, and post-game interviews with the press. It’s designed for easy access from multiple venues within the complex, including the future Tarrant Center, making it a central hub for both athletes and media. It includes tiered seating and integrated AV systems, and is designed to support both internal team content and external media coverage.
The Sports Television Director’s Suite, on the other hand, is located upstairs within the hockey office suite. This is a more technical space, equipped for live broadcasts and media production.
Tracey: Academic support is a growing priority for student-athletes. How did you address that in the design?
Tom: We created a dedicated academic space that includes quiet study areas, tutoring rooms, and collaborative zones. It’s located near the athletic facilities to make it easy for student-athletes to transition between training and academics. The design emphasizes natural light, acoustic comfort, and a sense of calm – supporting focus and productivity.
Tracey: Looking back, what stands out to you about the OCMC project?
Tom: Honestly, it’s seeing how the whole thing came together to serve both varsity athletics and the student body. That was the goal from the beginning – not just to upgrade facilities, but to make sure every space had a real purpose. The MAC court, the group fitness studios, the hydrotherapy center, and the media room … all of it is being used, and used well. It’s not extravagant, but it’s thoughtful. UVM really committed to creating something that supports wellness and performance across the board, and it’s exciting to see students and athletes actually in the spaces, making them their own.
CONCLUSION
With these initial phases of the OCMC now complete, UVM has expanded its support for varsity athletics through purposeful design and targeted investment. From the hydrotherapy suite and academic success center to upgraded locker rooms and media facilities, each space enhances the student-athlete experience while reinforcing the university’s values of performance, wellness, and community. As part of a larger, ongoing initiative, these improvements ensure the PFG complex remains a vital and future-ready resource for generations of Catamounts to come.