EGR Boat House
The East Grand Rapids (EGR) High School Varsity Crew Team upgraded its existing boathouse in John Collins Park on Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids. The project transformed the existing storage program into a modern and vibrant community asset with connections at both street and water levels. A clean, contemporary silhouette based on a traditional form blends with the natural surroundings. The 1,584 square-foot expansion adds a second-story training center and space for 35 ergometers, lockers, a meeting room, and weight training equipment. The addition expands the boat house function beyond storage, making it a dynamic hub for team engagement and activity.
“The East Grand Rapids High School (EGRHS) Crew Team has enjoyed a quaint, quiet spot on the shore of Reeds Lake since 2001 with its original single-story boathouse, barely visible from the street and tucked away from the community. The vision for the 2nd story expansion was born from necessity as the team consistently struggled to find space in the high school during the off-season for winter training.
The EGRHS Crew Team began working with the design team to envision how a second story could not only double the building’s square feet, creating a year-round home for off-season training, but also provide a front door to the community with direct access to the street, creating a formal identity for the team.
Since the new building has been completed, the team has expanded their roster, both in student-athletes and coaches.
The vision, passion, and creativity invested by the design team were instrumental in creating a space that is efficient, inviting, and top-of-class for a high school rowing team. Working with the constraints of a non-profit and a “to be determined” capital campaign, the care, and partnership demonstrated by the design team was truly a force for good in the overarching effort. For the first time in the program’s history, EGR Crew finally has a place to call home.”
Jeff Olsen, Partner - Olsen Loeks Development
