The Anaheim Arena: a new benchmark in sports architecture.

The design of the recently-completed Anaheim Arena responds to a classic sports architectural challenge: how to accommodate the requirements of significantly different sports teams within the constraints of budget, codes and civic responsibility. The Sports Facilities Group of Hellmuth, Obata & Kassabaum (HOK) was commissioned for the project in 1990 based on their extensive track record for sports and entertainment facilities (over twelve internationally). The Arena is home to the Mighty Ducks, the new National Hockey League expansion team, effective with the 1993-1994 season. It also is designed to meet the standards of a future National Basketball Association team. Interestingly, the decision to make this the Ducks' facility was made well after building construction began. Fortunately, sufficient flexibility built into the planning concept resulted in minimal changes to the original scheme. Site selection was made before the architectural team was on board and had much to do with its accessibility to East/West and North/South thoroughfares.

Some special engineering considerations were addressed early on. Of prime importance was the need to conform to stringent California seismic codes. The project engineers, Thornton - Tomasetti, were instrumental in designing a unique roof framing system. Rather than utilizing conventional cable construction, wide flange shapes were introduced as tension elements. This results in both structural and cost efficiencies. A successful benchmark has been reached in that no damage has resulted from the recent earthquake.

The functional program for the Arena called for transforming the hardwood basketball court to an ice sheet. This is achieved through a first-of-its-kind turntable seating configuration. Through a special retractable seat system, capacity graduates from 17,200 for hockey to 18,000 for basketball to 19,200 for center stage events. Result: appropriate pitch, improved site lines and environmental intimacy for basketball events.

Spectators can access the interior of the arena through three public and four private entrances. Anaheim Club members ascend one level to suites and function rooms.

The building's architectural concept is derived from forms and materials that are indigenous to Southern California. The building exterior is constructed primarily of a stucco-like, earthtone material, known as an EIFS system. To reduce the building's necessary scale and bulk, corners and roof lines are configured to make the structure more approachable and user friendly. Granite is introduced at the base and to frame the prominent entrance arches, which are comprised of glass and metal panels. For roofing material, the architects selected a single-ply PVC (polyvinyl chloride) membrane. The roof line is seen as a lighted beacon to approaching spectators.

Interiors were also designed by HOK with the goal of creating open, airy spaces conducive to focusing on the action on the rink or court. Marble surfaces are prominent throughout. Marble was chosen as a finish material instead of reinforced concrete block for its appearance, durability, and cost effectiveness. Several colors predominate throughout the interior spaces: reds, oranges and two creamy accent shades. Seating is constructed with flammability and toxicity in mind.

Lighting is predictably state of the art and acoustics are addressed throughout the introduction of a perforated material on the back wall of the upper deck. Special attention was given to voice generation.

Perhaps most significant for a project of this size and scope, it was delivered under budget and on schedule. Construction was completed in June, 1993. James F. Walters is project director for the Sports Facilities group of HOK Architects, an international full-service architectural firm with offices in Los Angeles.