Since 1964, the Crenshaw Gymnasium has been the heartbeat of Randolph-Macon College’s (RMC) sports programs. However, outdated locker rooms, dim interiors and limited team spaces were stifling both performance and enthusiasm. To elevate the student athlete experience, RMC partnered with our higher education practice team to transform the facility into a vibrant hub for both competition and camaraderie.

Spanning 10,000 sq. ft., the renovation introduced modernized locker rooms for men’s and women’s basketball, men’s lacrosse, women’s volleyball and men’s soccer. Each space features custom millwork wardrobes, enhanced lighting and bold graphic elements that reinforce Yellow Jacket pride. The basketball teams also gained dedicated film rooms with tiered seating and advanced AV technology, creating an immersive environment for game-day strategy and preparation.

At the core of the redesign, the main lobby was reimagined as a brand-forward entry experience. New flooring, fresh paint and dynamic graphics ensure RMC’s identity is immediately felt upon arrival, setting the tone for athletes and visitors alike. Meanwhile, upgraded showers replaced outdated infrastructure with contemporary finishes, including team-specific details like RMC’s signature yellow tiles—seamlessly blending function with school spirit.

Beyond aesthetics, the project prioritized efficiency, sustainability and physical well-being. Upgraded HVAC systems improve ventilation in showers, restrooms and locker rooms, while new rooftop heat pumps provide essential cooling—replacing outdated radiator heating.
Strategic LED lighting also augments visibility while reducing energy costs. A key challenge was maintaining RMC’s bold black-and-yellow color palette without compromising brightness—a balance achieved through carefully placed yellow soffits that illuminate focal areas, such as TV displays and training spaces, with lighter accents contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.

Today, the Crenshaw Gymnasium serves as a forward-thinking home base for student athletes, blending emerging technologies, top-tier equipment and thoughtful interiors to support continued success. More than a renovation, it represents a strategic investment in the next generation— providing the tools they need to train and excel in an environment that honors RMC’s legacy of competitive excellence.

Design: CPL Architecture, Engineering and Planning
Photography: Sterling Stevens