Erin J. Lastinger Athletics Complex Chapman University

Orange, Calif.
Construction Cost: $25.3 million
Area / Square Feet: 47,300
Occupancy Date: June 2008

Part of a larger master-planning effort designed to meet the evolving needs of Chapman University’s athletic department and campus population, Erin J. Lastinger Athletics Complex is a dynamic hybrid structure combining a football stadium and an aquatics center. The complex maximizes available square footage on a limited site, achieves economic and programmatic savings, and powerfully anchors the university’s athletic, recreation and outdoor programs.

Utilizing the campus palette of materials (custom brick and color blend, warm-colored painted plaster), the new athletic facility sits in harmony with the campus yet distinguishes itself by varying the brick colors and pattern, creating something new rather than simply mimicking the adjacent buildings. The exterior design reflects the facility’s dual use — brick masonry on the field-side elevation reflects strength, permanence and campus integration, whereas the aquatic side uses warm, neutral colored plaster that minimizes glare and enhances the pool area.

Bright, vibrant accent colors highlight the interior spaces without overwhelming them. A brick wall flows through the main corridor, integrating the exterior with the interior. Interior finishes were specified to achieve a beautiful, exciting environment, and since durability and life-cycle costs were equally important, sealed concrete floors were specified at the locker rooms and field-side entries to withstand high use. Natural lighting illuminates permanently occupied interior areas as much as possible.

Judge's Comments

A clever space-saving solution that honors the unique programmatic and athletic requirements of two separate venues. Building massing and materials knit together well to create a unified exterior, while still giving each venue its own identity.
— Craig Bouck

The architects did a wonderful job of solving a very complex design problem in a very simple, elegant way.
—Nate Appleman

Upon greater review, the complexity of the planning issues became apparent. The design solution was executed well, considering the parking deck below the field. The stadium terrace, providing views to both the pool and field, weaves the two facilities compositionally.
— Bill McCullough