Harold Alfond Forum - University of New England

Biddeford, Maine
Construction Cost: $16.5 million
Area / Square Feet: 106,500
Occupancy Date: October 2012

The University of New England’s Harold Alfond Forum is designed to convey a clear understanding of location in relation to the three primary uses. Visitors arriving at the two-story main lobby have instant access to the café area, a view of the ice rink and direct access to the field house and athletic support facilities.

A grand open stair and elevator in the lobby lead to the ice arena, located a half-level below ground to take advantage of the existing topography and provide easier access to the upper-level seating concourse. The stair and elevator also provide access to the second-level athletic offices and academic facilities, which include a lounge, faculty offices, classrooms, labs and a large meeting room that overlooks the ice arena and field house.

The interior finishes and materials are designed for appearance, durability and economy. The ice rink and the field house are separated by a zone of locker rooms, mechanical areas and support spaces. The two-story athletic administration/academic structure is attached to the ice rink and field house and located on the west side of the building, facing the parking lot and pedestrian walkway that connects the building to the residential facilities and the outdoor playing fields.