# Modern Ice Arena Designs hcma architecture + design Present the Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre By Kalin Ned | Published 2025-03-17 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rosemary-brown-recreation-centre References: [burnaby](https://www.burnaby.ca/recreation-and-arts/recreation-facilities/rosemary-brown-recreation-centre) & [hcma](https://hcma.ca/) The [Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rosemary-brown) in Burnaby, British Columbia was envisioned by [hcma architecture +](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tmsewtx-aquatic-and-community-centre) 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 ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.1/10 - Popularity: 52% | Activity: 34% | Freshness: 37% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Gen Alpha, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **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. - **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. - **Flexible Community-centric Spaces:** Modern sports complexes are evolving into multipurpose community hubs, emphasizing adaptability and inclusivity to cater to diverse user needs. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Architecture and Design:** Advancements in the use of sustainable materials and innovative design techniques redefine aesthetic and functional possibilities in architecture. - **Recreational Facilities:** Revolutionized recreational facilities focus on creating multifunctional spaces that serve both sports and community engagement activities. - **Sustainable Construction:** The sustainable construction industry is growing with innovative materials like glulam and nail-laminated timber, which offer enhanced acoustics and visual appeal. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Steel-Framed Recreation Centers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rosemary-brown.md) - [Rink-Turned Creative Hubs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/colorado-college-honnen-arts-hub.md) - [All-Electric Aquatic Center](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tmsewtx-aquatic-and-community-centre.md) - [Ukranian Multi-Sports Venue Concepts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kolchyno-ice-center.md) - [Fan‑inspired Arenas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kunshan-olympic-sports-centre.md) - [Olympic Ice Hockey Arenas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/santagiulia.md) - [Insulated Timber Sports Facilities](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/daillens-sports-facility.md) - [Community Sports Park Centers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/churchill-meadows.md) - [Sport and Wellness Hubs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/centralbadet.md)