Robert Morris University, Hockey Arena Concept
Sports, concerts, and graduation celebrations are hallmarks of school tradition and campus spirit. As venues that raise University visibility with visitors and prospective students while creating connections among students and staff, athletic facilities serve an important role in campus life. A feasibility study and concept was completed to visualize a new 2,500 seat NCAA Hockey arena to support Robert Morris University’s long-term planning.
Location:
Pittsburgh, PA
Size:
75,000 - 95,000-SF
Services:
Architecture
Planning + Project Services
Year / Status
2020
Concept
Our Approach
AE Works led upfront planning, coordinating all activities to provide a complete picture of project risks, program needs, and projected costs. With a complete team of architects, engineers, building specialists - and even a former collegiate hockey player, AE Works combined knowledge of the site and the University’s athletic program to visualize how an arena could be planned, designed and built to expand upon the existing sports complex. All aspects of ice hockey from maintenance of the ice rink to the fan experience were explored to provide a complete analysis of options.
Impact
An initial concept and estimate were developed to visualize a state-of-the-art NCAA Division I arena that ties into the existing structure, but stands out architecturally as the focal point of the existing sports complex. A horseshoe-style seating bowl provides potential for a VIP ice-level experience complete with a view of the Ohio River and large digital board for close-up action. The concept was developed with a full suite of amenities including concession area, team locker rooms, weight room, press box and support areas.
“Like many, in higher education, we dream big. AE Works provided professional, friendly, focused service, to help us imagine the possibilities, all while keeping us focused on what is truly feasible”
- Matt Millet VP for Development / Robert Morris University