Taking the initial step of partially sinking the building into the ground immediately offers a way to solve many of the challenges of this assignment; the first of which is to reduce the overall size of the structure so that it is sympathetic to its surroundings. By placing the gym next to the cafeteria, the existing running track can be preserved and the covered connection integrated into the new building. The architectural interpretation of the concept consists of a “floating” wooden and steel hybrid roof structure which is configured to let in north light. The ground level transparency of the elevations maintains existing visual connections and creates a light and airy interior.