The petrolium industry in Northern Alberta employs Canadians from across the country, many of whom remain transient, working in Alberta while their families live elsewhere. The client believes that good urban design and community amenities will encourage families to relocate, strengthening the social fabric of the city, and as such has invested in the expansion of high-quality cultural, sport and recreation facilities across Edmonton.
Commonwealth Stadium is an iconic multipurpose venue built in 1975. The stadium included modest training facilities and community gym but required a significant renewal and expansion. A new multi-use community recreation centre, indoor field house and team rooms for the Edmonton Eskimos were built to serve the team and community.
The three new programmatic elements: fieldhouse training facility, Eskimo’s team facilities, and community recreation centre are organized around a broad naturally lit social heart. Generous views into and through each zone create the feeling of permeability and a shared space. Entrances are arranged around the site to serve occupants arriving by bicycle, transit or car, and to allow various modes of operation during stadium events.
Building Design: MJMA and HIP Architects
Photography: Tom Arban