Architect : Moseley Architects
Design Architect : Populous
Total Construction Cost : $114 M
Square Feet : 225,000
Seating Capacity : 8,500
Project Description:
At the outset of the design process, inclusivity and community wellbeing were identified by the city and design team as key considerations for the project. The design team conceived of the building as a “pavilion in the park” — a place where all members of the community could come together under one roof to The Atlantic Union Bank Center and parking deck is located on the east side of the James Madison University campus and is designed to seat 8,500 patrons. The parking deck accommodates 1,500 vehicles, and a common pedestrian plaza joins the new convocation center and parking deck. The facade was designed to relate to the university’s adjacent campus buildings, as well as nearby dining and housing facilities. In doing so, the facility is designed in a way that complements JMU’s unique architectural context.
The primary function of the Atlantic Union Bank Center is to accommodate men’s and women’s basketball programs, as well as university graduations and various other student gatherings. Designed in three levels, the center’s event level is dedicated to supporting players’ needs. It features team facilities, weight training spaces, practice facilities, and storage and support spaces. The mezzanine level provides dedicated spaces for media and facilities management, as well as additional weight training areas. The main concourse level focuses on creating a unique fan experience by offering food, retail, club lounges, suites and ticketing.
In addition to housing student activities, the center is also intended to serve as a regional showplace. As such, it draws events and performances to campus, which not only enhances the overall student experience, but benefits the surrounding community as a whole by fostering tourism to the city.recreate, learn from one another and create lasting memories. The sweeping roof form creates an impactful, welcoming entrance and unites the various program spaces as it continues along the length of the building.
