The idea of combining a gymnasium and auditorium isn’t new, but it’s rarely done without compromise. Sioux Center Christian School brought us a challenge: could one space truly support athletics, fine arts, chapel, and school-wide gatherings without sacrificing performance in any area? With careful planning, collaboration, and design innovation, 10Fold helped create a space that transitions seamlessly between events, maximizes every square foot, and delivers lasting value for the school and its community.
The result is a true “gymatorium” that balances durability and performance while ensuring the best return on investment for both the school and its donors. One of the key design elements that sets this gymatorium apart is the use of a hangar door as the stage door. Typically used in airplane hangars, this innovative solution allows for sound separation while remaining easy to operate and visually striking. Acoustic wall treatments are designed to withstand the rigors of a gym while evoking the feel of an auditorium. Theatrical lighting is retractable, controllable, and well-protected, paired with perches for manual spotlighting when needed.
Sports equipment was carefully coordinated with theater systems to support both high school–level certified competitions and youth tournaments. The layout allows for PE classes or practice on the court to run alongside music or drama rehearsals on the stage. With bright projection technology and flexible seating, the space easily transitions to host chapel services, performances, and large audiences.
What makes this project special is how all the elements work together in harmony. Every feature, from equipment placement to finishes, was designed to transition quickly and efficiently, shifting from sports to fine arts to school assemblies in a matter of moments. Sioux Center Christian’s new gymatorium proves that multi-use doesn’t have to mean compromise. Instead, it’s a vibrant, flexible hub that reflects the school’s commitment to both community and excellence by delivering the most value for their students and families.
