The University of Pennsylvania sought to elevate the experience of its football student-athletes while honoring the history of Franklin Field. With limited space to work with under the east stands, designers embraced the challenge, envisioning an innovative two-story facility that reconfigures concourses to accommodate expanded locker rooms, meeting spaces and storage — all while integrating track and field athlete accommodations.
A defining element of the design is its bold expression of Penn’s storied football tradition. Legend has it that when asked about team colors, a Penn captain famously declared, “We’re going to wear the colors of the teams we beat,” cementing red and blue as symbols of competitive spirit. This identity is woven throughout the facility, from vibrant ceiling panels in the locker room to striking applications of the iconic “Split P” logo reinforcing team pride at every turn.
The new Penn football locker room delivers state-of-the-art amenities that enhance performance, recovery and team cohesion. Ventilated lockers, spa-like showers and tiered meeting spaces provide comfort and functionality. On the second floor, operable glass partitions transform meeting rooms into entertainment spaces, with panoramic views of Penn Park and the Philadelphia skyline — offering a functional upgrade and a dynamic recruiting tool.
By maximizing limited space and elevating both performance and tradition, the design team delivered a professional-grade facility that strengthens Penn football’s legacy while positioning the program to attract and develop top talent for years to come.
Architect of Record
EwingCole
Philadelphia, Pa.
Suppliers
City of Madeira McDonald Commons
