Rice University Brian Patterson Sports Performance Center A Multifunctional Space That Performs and Preserves

The Challenge

HKS was tasked with designing a sports performance center in the north end zone of Rice Stadium that will allow the university to remain a preferred venue for college football and to attract and train top-tier talent.

The Design Solution

HKS worked with our partners, Jackson & Ryan, to design a two-story end zone building, including environmental graphics and a new LED scoreboard. In a nod to the elegant lines of the stadium, white columns support the building’s winged roof, an homage to the school’s mascot, the owl. The winged roof projects over an expansive glass wall, providing natural light and a view from the two-story weight room to the stadium and the field. The building features football team locker rooms, strength and conditioning rooms, a 150-seat auditorium and coaches’ offices.

The Design Impact

The project has been a tremendous success to the football program for recruiting and player development. According to Coach David Bailiff, the new building has “created a sense of good mental health.” Designed with the needs of students in mind, the enhanced sports medicine and training areas are key to keeping student athletes healthy.