US Squash

Arlen Specter US Squash Center

Philadelphia, PA

Opened in the summer of 2021, the Arlen Specter US Squash Center has become the premier hub for squash in the United States. Housed in the historic Pennsylvania State Armory Building on Drexel University’s campus in University City, Philadelphia, the Armory boasts a storied past, having served as home to the 103rd Engineering Battalion of the National Guard, Drexel’s ROTC program, and various sports and recreational activities.

 

EwingCole’s team provided comprehensive programming, planning, and schematic design services to transform the landmarked 1916-era Classic Revival Armory into a vibrant center for squash players of all skill levels and a national destination for the sport’s top professional athletes. The new facility is designed to bring today’s pros the best in practice and competition environment while also introducing the sport to middle and high school students from across the City of Philadelphia and beyond through after school programming.

 

The reimagined armory features 20 competition-ready squash courts, with 18 singles courts lining the sides of the hall and two glass-walled championship courts commanding the center. Visitors entering at ground level are instantly immersed in the action, while tiered seating at the centrally located championship courts connects to a wrap-around mezzanine, offering panoramic views and an elevated experience that celebrates the high, vaulted ceilings of the historic space. Key concourse elements include team locker rooms, a pro shop, and various fan and player amenities.

 

The mezzanine provides strategic vantage points for spectators and coaches and additional features such as a café, classrooms, meeting spaces, and training areas, all seamlessly integrated into the facility’s design. The juxtaposition of streamlined, modern elements with the armory’s historic architecture creates a dynamic contrast, emphasizing the beauty of the existing structure. Indirect daylight streams through large windows, while color-changing LED lighting illuminates the ceiling trusses at night, amplifying the venue’s energy and drama. Bold interior graphics honor prominent players and supporters, adding vibrancy to the space.