The Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA) is known for their education focus. The association’s Architectural Significance in Metal Buildings series for undergraduate and graduate architecture programs is one example. This series’ newest addition is a 24-page folio on the recently opened Michelle & Barack Obama Sports Complex in Los Angeles. MBMA created it in coordination with SPF:architects (SPF:a), Buro Happold Consulting Engineers and Nucor Building Systems. Download a free copy at https://www.mbmaeducation.org/resources/.

“Professors we work with say they are excited to use this new resource as a teaching tool,” comments Tony Bouquot, MBMA’s general manager. “This folio is a great asset for both instructors and students.”

The Obama Sports Complex folio includes:

• Project description for the two-building, 40,000-square-foot facility
• Overview of design and construction processes, including design priorities and an architectural statement from architect Zoltan E. Pali of SPF:a
• Goals and objectives for the two structures, one housing an Olympic-size indoor pool and bathhouse and the other a gym with two basketball courts
• Project’s relevance for architecture students, including practical applications
• Resources and additional research recommendations

This is MBMA’s second Architectural Significance in Metal Buildings folio. The first is an educational and engaging analysis of the design of Alamo Beer Co in San Antonio, Texas. The third folio, featuring the Boston Sports Institute in Wellesley, Massachusetts, is set for release in late 2022.

“These folio case studies help students understand the processes involved in designing creative and efficient metal buildings,” Bouquot says. “Each folio spotlights a single facility and dissects the design priorities, goals and outcomes.”