The existing 108,000 sq ft arena, with an expanded concourse level by more than 25,000 sq ft, consists of two public levels of program support surrounding the main arena floor positioned at the lower level. Being a four-sided entry facility, new protocol and security control created the need for a single major entrance lobby and gateway facing the downtown and south lawn square, including a signature new kiosk and ground sign with full video board messaging and ticketing systems. An all-glass entry and vestibule allows warm daylight to fill the entry lobby as a multipurpose event space but also provides the community with exciting views to showcase activities and events viewed from the streets and sidewalks.
Indiana State University Hulman Center
Following its grand opening in 1973, Indiana State University’s Hulman Center Arena has continued to fulfill its mission as a regional spectator venue serving students and citizens of the City of Terre Haute and the greater Wabash Valley River Region spanning Indiana and Illinois counties. RATIO was commissioned to envision a complete facility improvement plan and concept design for a major expansion and renovation of the facility and site, its first in nearly 50 years.
The main concourse throughout was widened to meet current social space requirements and provides ultimate flexibility for activities, movement, concessions, and restrooms conveniently dispersed around the central arena bowl. At key intersections, the concourse enjoys new view openings cut into the arena bowl – one opening houses a glass enclosed Champions Club with private seating and meeting space overlooking the arena.
The downtown city block now reveals an all new façade for the arena with full wrap around street level glazing and upper level metal panels. Back-of-house renovations included upgrades to team locker rooms, performing artist dressing rooms, coaching staff and officials dressings rooms, a media facility, athletic training room, communications press box, and full mechanical electrical systems meeting USGBC LEED Silver. The facility re-opened in December 2021.