Northeastern's New Athletic Facility: Innovation Meets Controversy in Design

Northeastern University’s Multipurpose Athletic Facility Update

Northeastern University has unveiled its latest updates to the Multipurpose Athletic Facility located at 262 St. Botolph Street during a public hearing with the Boston Civic Design Commission on October 22. This facility is set to replace the historic Matthews Arena, which has served the community for over 114 years. The project is part of Northeastern’s 10-year Institutional Master Plan (IMP).

A rendering of the athletic facility that would replace Matthews Arena. The proposed building faced criticisms in terms of its physical appearance. Photo courtesy BPDA.

The new facility aims to enhance the university's offerings with four distinct sections: an arena, a turf area, a basketball court, and a student recreational space. Bryan Schabel, design director at Perkins & Will, expressed excitement about the building's unconventional stacked design that integrates student and athlete-focused spaces.

Design Features and Community Concerns

The proposed design includes student spaces vertically above the main lobby, while athlete facilities will be on the opposite side. Schabel emphasized the uniqueness of combining such large-scale event and recreational spaces.

The facility will be significantly larger than the existing arena, boasting a 290,000 square-foot design compared to Matthews Arena’s 107,000 square feet. However, the indoor arena will have a reduced height of 40 feet and a capacity of approximately 4,000 spectators, which has raised concerns among design committee members regarding its aesthetic appeal and the perception of the athleticism it represents.

Architect William Rawn noted that the building's design may not celebrate athleticism as intended and could feel limiting. There are worries that the proposed manganese ironspot brick material will create a dark, unwelcoming appearance, especially under less favorable lighting conditions, as expressed by committee member David Hacin.

Future Developments

Northeastern plans to enhance the Gainsborough Street entrance with adaptable screens and outdoor queuing areas, while also incorporating sustainability measures, such as geothermal wells and expanded green spaces. The project is currently in the Design Development stage, focusing on structural integrity while addressing community feedback.

Despite the critiques, Schabel affirmed the university's commitment to creating a welcoming environment that honors both the history of Matthews Arena and the dynamic needs of the student body. The facility seeks to redefine the east end of the campus and improve accessibility to athletic resources, all while considering the needs of neighboring institutions.

A rendering of the facility shows the exterior entrance from the southwest. The St. Botolph Street side of the building holds much of the university branding for the site, according to the proposed plan. Photo courtesy BPDA.