Hoag Pavilion Boston College Chestnut Hill, Mass.

Project Description:

Rather than creating a new free-standing building, architects designed an expansion and improved the existing Conte Forum with the addition of the new Hoag Basketball Pavilion. The renovation opens up walls and transforms the athlete’s development and wellness experience, creating new connections to campus with visibility to the activity inside.

The Power Gym previously served as a shared practice gym for volleyball and both men’s and women’s basketball. With the time and development demands on student-athletes, and the competitive nature of recruitment, it became increasingly important to have a dedicated practice gym and improved support spaces for BC’s basketball programs. The new fully interconnected facility gives both teams a competitive edge by building team chemistry and reinforcing the university’s commitment to excellence.

Breaking down barriers and showcasing the dedication and teamwork of the student-athletes is a refreshing and healthy counter to the many facilities at Division I universities with remote accommodations that further isolate student-athletes from their campus peers. Hoag Pavilion’s convenient location ensures that all of its accommodations are always available to the players and coaches.

The design addresses the demands put on student-athletes juggling academics, training, practices and games by keeping their place at the core of campus. Moreover, the Pavilion’s prominence on campus provides a welcoming presence to event attendees and is a constant reinforcement of school spirit.