Stephen M. Bennett Student-Athlete Performance Center – University of Wisconsin

Madison, WI
Construction Cost: 82 million
Area / Square Feet: 250,000
Occupancy Date: January 2015

The Stephen M. Bennett Student-Athlete Performance Center is a part of a facilities master plan that calls for an athletic village near Camp Randall Stadium. The project provides modern facilities that create a one-stop shop for any academic or athletic need, enhancing the overall experience of student-athletes.

The project integrates training facilities, an academic center, locker rooms and other student-athlete support facilities within an addition to Camp Randall Stadium, as well as renovated space at the adjacent McClain Athletic Center. The fitness center, locker rooms and sports medicine facilities for varsity football and Olympic sports are located in remodeled space under stadium bleachers and the McClain Center’s indoor practice football field. The field itself received a new metal and translucent roof and snow-trapping north facade.

The addition to Camp Randall is enclosed by a curved arcaded masonry facade complementary to the venerable stadium’s traditional architecture. The Academic Center’s classrooms and labs are collected behind the arcade and visible to the public, sending a message to prospective students and their families: the education of athletes is supported and valued by the university.