hcma architecture + design Present the Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre
Kalin Ned — March 17, 2025 — Art & Design
The Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre in Burnaby, British Columbia was envisioned by hcma architecture + design. The building represents a modern reimagining of the traditional ice arena as it blends high-performance sports facilities with a welcoming community hub.
The Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre cost $49.5 million to develop and spans 91,999 square feet. The facility features two NHL-sized rinks that are arranged in an L-shape and connected by a central lobby that serves as a vibrant gathering space. Unlike conventional ice arenas, the design prioritizes natural light, warmth, and inclusivity. hcma architecture + design utilized a hybrid steel-timber roof system with exposed mass timber to create this visually striking and inviting atmosphere. North-facing clerestories flood the rinks with daylight without compromising ice quality, while the use of materials like glulam beams and nail-laminated timber enhances the space’s acoustic and aesthetic qualities. The centre also includes multipurpose rooms, warm-side viewing galleries, and outdoor spaces.
Image Credit: Ema Peter
The Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre cost $49.5 million to develop and spans 91,999 square feet. The facility features two NHL-sized rinks that are arranged in an L-shape and connected by a central lobby that serves as a vibrant gathering space. Unlike conventional ice arenas, the design prioritizes natural light, warmth, and inclusivity. hcma architecture + design utilized a hybrid steel-timber roof system with exposed mass timber to create this visually striking and inviting atmosphere. North-facing clerestories flood the rinks with daylight without compromising ice quality, while the use of materials like glulam beams and nail-laminated timber enhances the space’s acoustic and aesthetic qualities. The centre also includes multipurpose rooms, warm-side viewing galleries, and outdoor spaces.
Image Credit: Ema Peter
Trend Themes
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Hybrid Steel-timber Structures — The emerging use of hybrid steel-timber construction in public spaces highlights a shift towards environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing architectural designs.
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Daylight Integration in Sports Facilities — Integrating natural lighting solutions into sports facilities offers a dual benefit of energy efficiency and improved user experience by creating inviting environments.
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Flexible Community-centric Spaces — Modern sports complexes are evolving into multipurpose community hubs, emphasizing adaptability and inclusivity to cater to diverse user needs.
Industry Implications
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Architecture and Design — Advancements in the use of sustainable materials and innovative design techniques redefine aesthetic and functional possibilities in architecture.
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Recreational Facilities — Revolutionized recreational facilities focus on creating multifunctional spaces that serve both sports and community engagement activities.
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Sustainable Construction — The sustainable construction industry is growing with innovative materials like glulam and nail-laminated timber, which offer enhanced acoustics and visual appeal.
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