Marlborough School The Arden Project

New sports and aquatic facility sustain historic school’s athletic legacy

Marlborough School’s new athletic facility, dubbed The Arden Project, features an aquatic center, multisport synthetic fields, post-tension tennis and basketball courts, plus a wellness facility and garden. The project enhances the school’s athletic programs—including water polo and competitive swimming—and the overall campus culture by providing much-needed open space for student activities and Marlborough traditions.

Established in 1889, Marlborough School is one of the oldest independent girls’ schools in Southern California. With more than 70-percent student participation in athletics and 36 teams active in 12 different sports, athletics are a key part of the education process and overall wellness of Marlborough students.

The 9,850-square-foot aquatic and fitness complex features a competition swimming pool, with ample deck space for dry-land training. A shade structure over tables and chairs runs along one side, providing an overlook to the sports fields below. The adjacent fitness center includes a state-of-the-art training room as well as equipment storage.

A synthetic-turf greenway parallels the main athletic field and is bordered on both sides by benches grouped next to shade trees and flowering planters. These “pocket gardens” offer pleasant zones for students to relax and socialize. At one end, a trellised patio accommodates small groups for team projects or outdoor lunches.

The project incorporates sustainable design strategies, including solar heating, recycled and low-emittance materials, light-colored pavings and high-efficiency irrigation. Designers also applied innovative stormwater management techniques, which were necessary to address expanded parking areas added under the project.