Architecture for Athletic Impact

With The University of Utah’s entry into the PAC 12 Conference in 2011, the football program experienced a new, highly competitive environment with enormous challenges. After 25 years, the University of Utah Eccles Football Center had become outdated and no longer served the football program’s needs. Since the scope and quality of football facilities are highly influential in successful recruiting, the need for a new athletic facility became critical to the future success of the football program. 

VCBO worked closely with the director of football operations to plan, design, and develop an elevated and functional facility. With user experience at the forefront of the design decisions, VCBO integrated The University of Utah brand throughout the building with the recognizable logo and striking crimson color used consistently in each of the spaces. Not only do these design choices help to facilitate wayfinding, they provide a holistic brand experience that builds a sense of community and school pride.

Functional, human-centric design was integrated into each space, creating a comfortable environment for players to train, study, and build team unity and camaraderie. The new football center features branded locker rooms, state-of-the-art training and therapy facilities, strength and conditioning spaces, team instructional spaces, dining and kitchen facilities, staff offices, and an inspiring Hall of Honor that infuses the spirit, history, and future of the university’s football program.