Designed by HOK, Rogers Place and the ICE District meld an iconic architectural design and new development with Edmonton’s well-established commercial and residential neighborhoods. The arena and district represent a significant reinvestment in the city fabric by the Oilers Entertainment Group.
One of the primary project challenges was connecting the arena to the ICE District and Edmonton’s downtown. The design and planning team proposed extending the arena’s footprint over the main thoroughfare—104 Avenue—to connect the two parcels of land identified for development. This elevated, multipurpose entryway, dubbed Ford Hall, is enhanced by street-level commercial development.
photography by © Michael Robinson
The curvilinear covered extension creates bold connectivity, a physical presence and a distinctive brand identity that reinforces the street grid and activates Rogers Place and the ICE District year-round. The pliable, unpainted stainless-steel cladding provides a dynamic and sleek backdrop for the events happening inside.
The ICE District is in the process of becoming a lively mixed-use development spanning 25 acres. The district includes a community rink, private development, office development, residential units, and parking spaces, as well as a connection to an existing light-rail system.
photography by © Michael Robinson
The arena design creates a premium experience for every guest. Seating options include 3,100 club seats, 900 PCL Loge seats, 500 drink rail seats, 300 ozone club seats, 57 Scotiabank executive suites, 24 theater boxes, three clubs, two club lounges and Curve, a full-service restaurant. The arena features the NHL’s largest high-definition scoreboard, at 46-by-46 feet, as well as more than 1,200 HDTVs.
As Canada’s first LEED Silver-certified NHL arena and the second in North America, the facility is designed to use 37 percent less water and 14 percent less energy than conventionally design venues.
The fan-oriented arena and adjacent ICE District are expected to invigorate the urban core and catalyze additional downtown development while extending Edmonton’s existing footprint and communicating its civic character.
photography by © Michael Robinson
Project Info:
Architects: HOK
Location: Edmonton, AB, Canada
Associate Architects: Architecture Tkalcic Bengert, DIALOG
Area: 102,195 m2
Project Year: 2016
Photographs: Michael Robinson
Manufacturers: Irwin Seating, Zahner
Planning and Architectural Consultant: Shugarman Architecture
Landscape: PFS Studio, DIALOG
Project Name: Rogers Place and the ICE District
