St. Joseph’s University Pool Renovation | O’Pake Recreation Center

Modernized for Student Recreation, Community Use & Long-Term Performance

Located at St. Joseph’s University in Merion Station, Pennsylvania, the O’Pake Recreation Center natatorium has undergone a complete renovation to support the University’s evolving recreational and intramural aquatic programming. While no longer home to an NCAA swim team, the facility has been upgraded to NCAA and NFHS standards, enabling it to serve students, faculty, and the greater Philadelphia aquatics community with pride.

The project was a collaboration between Ewing Cole (Architect of Record) and Wallover Architects (Aquatic Design Architect), whose design expertise transformed the existing 6-lane pool into a modern, versatile facility with top-tier finishes, updated systems, and an inviting new architectural character.

AFTER St. Joseph’s University O’Pake Recreation Center – A Premier Campus Aquatic Renovation

St. Joseph’s University Pool

Key Features of the O’Pake Recreation Center Renovation

6-Lane Competition-Grade Pool
Enhanced with a high-performance interior finish and designed for recreational laps, intramural events, and outreach programs.
Plaster Interior & Mosaic Tile Accents
The updated interior includes an elegant new plaster finish and ceramic mosaic tile detailing, offering both beauty and durability.
Advanced Water Quality Systems
Featuring a pressure regenerative filtration system, the pool delivers exceptional water clarity with reduced water usage and waste.
Updated Sanitation & HVAC Systems
Fully modernized mechanical infrastructure, including new primary and secondary sanitation technologies and HVAC upgrades for optimal air quality and comfort.
New Architectural Lighting & Finishes
The natatorium boasts brighter, energy-efficient lighting and a complete interior refresh for a more welcoming and aesthetically pleasing environment.
Community Access & Versatile Use
Designed to host student recreational programs, faculty fitness, and community aquatics initiatives, including high school and local team rentals.

Delivering Smart, Student-Focused Aquatic Design

Wallover Architects’ scope included aquatic design, finish selection, water treatment systems, and air quality engineering. The result is a pool that not only meets performance and safety standards, but also exceeds expectations for usability, maintainability, and long-term campus value.

This project is a testament to Wallover’s expertise in renovating legacy natatoriums to align with modern recreational needs and sustainability practices. From student swim clubs to local community partnerships, the pool at St. Joseph’s University is poised to make a lasting impact.

Build Your Next Campus Aquatic Success Story

Whether your school needs a facility upgrade or a brand-new aquatic center, Wallover Architects brings deep experience, creativity, and technical knowledge to every design. We specialize in competitive, recreational, and community-based pool facilities that drive student wellness and campus engagement.

St. Joseph’s University O’Pake Recreation Center – A Premier Campus Aquatic Renovation

Modernized for Student Recreation, Community Use & Long-Term Performance

St. Joseph’s University Pool

Key Features of the O’Pake Recreation Center Renovation

Delivering Smart, Student-Focused Aquatic Design

Build Your Next Campus Aquatic Success Story

Aquatic Facility Project Galleries