Idaho Central Credit Union Arena

Design of the roof structure for this 4,000-seat arena was inspired by the undulating landscape of the nearby Palouse region of Idaho. Warm timber and natural light represent a significant break from the traditional steel and concrete sports arena typology. The soaring roof was built using a large glulam portal frame and 140-foot-long glulam king-post trusses, engineered to meet the complex loading requirements of the long spans and double-curved roof shape. The facility also includes a three-level structure housing locker rooms, coaches’ offices, and alumni center, constructed with a glulam post-and-beam system and DLT panels. Most of the wood came from the University of Idaho’s own forests, and was milled and fabricated by Idaho firms. The visually stunning structure is used to host a multitude of activities, including athletic events, concerts, and campus programs. The structure also provides educational opportunities by serving as a learning laboratory for students in the University’s forestry and engineering departments. 66,186 sf / Type IV-HT construction