A Historic Revival

A historic military armory has been reborn as the nation’s flagship venue for squash, blending elite performance, community access, and architectural preservation.

Arlen Specter US Squash Center

Philadelphia, PA

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.

 

Client US Squash
Size 90,000 SF
Categories Education, Sports & Entertainment
Completion Date 2021

 

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.

 

A 360 View From Above

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.

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