Elevated Tradition
A reimagined training complex at Franklin Field strengthens Penn football’s identity and enhances the student-athlete experience.
Coulson Family Training Complex
Philadelphia, PA
The University of Pennsylvania, home to one of the nation’s most historic football venues, set out to transform its underutilized space beneath Franklin Field’s east stands. The goal was to create a modern, high-performance training environment that reflects Penn’s athletic legacy and supports the evolving needs of its football and track and field programs.
Working within tight site constraints, the project team designed an innovative two-story facility that reconfigures concourses to expand locker rooms, storage, and team meeting spaces. The result is the Coulson Family Training Complex—a facility that enhances athlete wellness, recruitment, and pride.
The design draws inspiration from Penn’s storied football history, notably the bold red and blue team colors and the iconic “Split P” logo, which appear throughout the interiors. From illuminated ceiling panels to locker room finishes the space celebrates tradition while looking forward.
The football locker room includes ventilated lockers, spa-quality showers, and integrated AV for team-wide meetings. Above, flexible meeting spaces with operable glass walls open to a reception area with panoramic views of Penn Park and the Philadelphia skyline—creating a unique space for both strategy and celebration.
With this transformation, the university has redefined what’s possible within Franklin Field—honoring the past while giving student-athletes the tools to compete at the highest level.
“Ewing Cole designed a world-class football facility for the University of Pennsylvania, skillfully combining modern design with the historic charm of Franklin Field, the nation’s oldest operating stadium. The facility features upgraded locker rooms that promote team camaraderie and comfort, along with team meeting spaces outfitted with advanced technology to enhance player development and game preparation. This seamless integration of cutting-edge functionality within the iconic stadium preserves its legacy while addressing the evolving needs of Penn’s student-athletes and coaches. The innovative design ensures the football program will thrive in an environment that celebrates both tradition and progress for years to come.”
– Noah Gustkey, Associate Athletic Director, Senior Director of Facilities – University of Pennsylvania
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