University of Cincinnati Nippert Stadium

Project Description

Embracing historic Nippert Stadium, framing iconic views and weaving itself into the carefully considered urban fabric of elegant spaces and signature buildings, the West Pavilion is a significant addition to the University of Cincinnati (UC) campus. Sitting in the heart of UC, the stadium is uniquely open year-round to daily campus circulation and use. With its powerful presence, dramatic geometry and cantilevers, the new tower provides unparalleled new amenities and revenue sources through generous club spaces, club and loge seating, luxury suites, and an elevated outdoor terrace overlooking the field.

It was paramount to preserve an iconic axial view from Bearcat Plaza into Nippert Stadium. In opposition to this, it was also critical that the new upper level premium suites be centered on the field. These conflicting forces were the catalyst of the design. To preserve the view corridor, the Club and Loge levels slipped to the south around the southern end of the bowl, while the two floors of suites cantilevered north to meet the Rec Center, and forming a large outdoor club terrace at the south end.

Because the site is so confined (UC is less than 8’ away in places), the second guiding principle was for the bulk of the new tower be as transparent as possible. Almost every interior or exterior wall parallel to the field is floor to ceiling glass, allowing views from the main central space of UC through the new building and directly into the stadium.