University Hockey Arena
Connecticut
• 3,500 seats
• 67,250 square foot hockey arena
Focusing on the use of light in the development of the design concept. With outdoor hockey games gaining in popularity, the structure's northern facade provides vast expanses of glazing to draw the exterior environment into the arena. Large areas of opaque glazing provided on the east and west sides of the structure introduce diffused natural illumination into the space. From all directions the design avoids direct sunlight and glare. The materials on the structure's fully-glazed exterior mimic the movement of spectators throughout the building as they make their way to their seats. Furthermore, the building will glow at night, attracting visitors and serving as an iconic feature.
For practical purposes, the structure is designed with a clearly delineated entry. The inviting façade clearly defines where spectators should enter the arena. The main entry of the building accommodates a lobby, ticket sales offices and ticket collection area that leads to the concourse, which houses concessions and restrooms. Bleachers and fixed seating will serve up to 3,500 spectators. The structure's services entry includes a garage for ice resurfacer(s). Roof-top mechanical units are also located at this section of the building to separate them from the structure's featured facade. Also located at the rear of the building, a separate entry leads to locker rooms for players that, in turn, lead directly to the team benches, offices and a mechanical space.