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Furman PAC

Physical Activities Center

Furman University | Greenville, SC

Improvements to Furman University’s Herman W. Lay Physical Activities Center (PAC) focus on expanding fitness opportunities, updating key amenities, and creating spaces that support both academic programming and student activity.

At the heart of the project is a new fitness zone created within the former pool area. The expanded space features modern fitness equipment and a rock-climbing wall, giving students more opportunities for strength, conditioning, and recreation. The existing therapy pool was converted into a dedicated group fitness studio, creating a flexible environment for classes and training.

The renovation was shaped by how students engage with the PAC and the types of activities they value most. Designated collaboration zones are incorporated throughout the facility, providing informal places for students to connect and recharge alongside their fitness activities. Locker rooms were consolidated and fully renovated to improve circulation, accessibility, and efficiency.

Connecting Fitness, Research, and Learning

The PAC’s role as a center for wellness extends beyond traditional fitness. The Human Performance Lab was relocated to a redesigned space equipped with advanced technology capable of conducting the same types of metabolic testing and biomechanical analysis found at major research institutions.

On a separate floor, two new classrooms further expand the facility’s academic capabilities, providing dedicated space for instruction while allowing the PAC to serve as a bridge between classroom learning and real-world applications in health and human performance.

Transforming an Occupied Building

Renovating an active campus facility presented its own set of challenges. Construction took place within an existing occupied building and required a phased approach to maintain operations and minimize disruption to students and staff.

The renovation allowed Furman to make significant changes within the existing PAC while continuing to serve the campus community. Underutilized spaces were transformed into higher-impact fitness and wellness amenities, while existing areas were reorganized to create a more cohesive and functional experience throughout the facility.

The impact of the renovation was quickly evident. Following the opening of the new spaces, student participation in fitness classes increased by 550 percent, demonstrating the demand for expanded and updated fitness offerings. The renovated PAC now brings together fitness, recreation, academics, and student life in a more cohesive environment. The result is a facility designed to support how Furman students move, learn, connect, and engage with campus every day.

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Physical Activities Center

Improvements to Furman University’s Herman W. Lay Physical Activities Center (PAC) focus on expanding fitness opportunities, updating key amenities, and creating spaces that support both academic programming and student activity.

At the heart of the project is a new fitness zone created within the former pool area. The expanded space features modern fitness equipment and a rock-climbing wall, giving students more opportunities for strength, conditioning, and recreation. The existing therapy pool was converted into a dedicated group fitness studio, creating a flexible environment for classes and training.

The renovation was shaped by how students engage with the PAC and the types of activities they value most. Designated collaboration zones are incorporated throughout the facility, providing informal places for students to connect and recharge alongside their fitness activities. Locker rooms were consolidated and fully renovated to improve circulation, accessibility, and efficiency.

Integrating fitness and human performance

The PAC’s role as a center for wellness extends beyond traditional fitness. The Human Performance Lab was relocated to a redesigned space equipped with advanced technology capable of conducting the same types of metabolic testing and biomechanical analysis found at major research institutions.

The lab provides Furman students with opportunities for hands-on learning and advanced research while supporting collaborations with Greenville Health System and Clemson University. Its integration into the renovated PAC strengthens the connection between exercise, human performance, academics, and applied research.

On a separate floor, two new classrooms further expand the facility’s academic capabilities, providing dedicated space for instruction while allowing the PAC to serve as a bridge between classroom learning and real-world applications in health and human performance.

Transforming an occupied building

Renovating an active campus facility presented its own set of challenges. Construction took place within an existing occupied building and required a phased approach to maintain operations and minimize disruption to students and staff.

The renovation allowed Furman to make significant changes within the existing PAC while continuing to serve the campus community. Underutilized spaces were transformed into higher-impact fitness and wellness amenities, while existing areas were reorganized to create a more cohesive and functional experience throughout the facility.

Measurable impact

The impact of the renovation was quickly evident. Following the opening of the new spaces, student participation in fitness classes increased by 550 percent, demonstrating the demand for expanded and updated fitness offerings.

The renovated PAC now brings together fitness, recreation, academics, and student life in a more cohesive environment. The result is a facility designed to support how Furman students move, learn, connect, and engage with campus every day.