The East of the Red Rec Plex is a transformative recreation facility in east Winnipeg, designed by Number Ten Architectural Group and GGA-Architecture. Adjacent to the Transcona Library, the project responds to community priorities and the City of Winnipeg’s vision for future-ready, multi-use recreation spaces.
The facility brings together diverse program elements, including an aquatics complex with a 25-metre, 8-lane lap pool, zero-entry leisure pool, lazy river, whirlpool, and waterslides. Three locker room zones (men’s, women’s, and universal) support accessibility, safety, and operational efficiency. The gymnasium expands capacity for basketball, volleyball, pickleball, and badminton, with an elevated running track and adjacent fitness centre enhancing flexibility and connectivity. Additional program features include community rooms, a kitchen, café, and administrative offices, alongside a 7,400 square foot childcare centre with outdoor play areas.
The design concept is anchored by the “Main Line,” a central spine that unites the facility’s varied program areas, inspired by Winnipeg’s historic rail lines. This organizing principle creates intuitive wayfinding and promotes gathering across user groups. A pedestrian-focused urban interface integrates the Rec Plex with the surrounding campus, linking directly to the library and community plaza.
Key design themes include visibility, with the aquatics hall showcased from the street as a civic beacon; activity, with energy and movement on display throughout interior and exterior spaces; and access, with multimodal connections via transit, the Transcona Pathway, and universally accessible design. Sustainability is a central priority, with strategies under review to achieve the City’s zero-carbon goals while balancing operational realities.
The East of the Red Rec Plex embodies a new model for community recreation, integrating aquatics, athletics, childcare, and gathering spaces into a vibrant, flexible, and inclusive destination.
Winnipeg, MA
