Northeastern University, Multipurpose Athletic Facility
Continuing the legacy of Matthews Arena, a landmark of Boston sports and rich civic history, Northeastern is creating a new, first-class facility for student-athletes and the broader community. As a bold step forward for the University, the Multipurpose Athletic Facility will be a home for men’s and women’s ice hockey, men’s and women’s basketball, and student recreation. Designed to support Division I athletes, club teams, and intramural sports, it will feature modern courts, locker rooms, training spaces, and fan amenities. The facility is uniquely crafted to fit within its dense urban setting, stacking programs vertically to maximize space and promote synergies.
As the first project in Northeastern’s new Institutional Master Plan, the facility will integrate with the surrounding campus and city while advancing ambitious sustainability and energy goals. Pursuing ILFI Net Zero Carbon Certification and Living Building Challenge CORE Certification, it will set a new standard for environmentally responsible sports facilities. More than a venue, it will be a hub for competition, fitness, and connection, ensuring future generations have the space and resources to train, play, and thrive.
Project Partnership:
Perkins&Will (Design Architect, Architect of Record)
DREAM Collaborative (Associate Architect)
Uniquely designed for year-round use, the facility stands as a hub of athletic prowess, academic achievement, and physical wellness. From the energizing pulse of Game Day to the constant movement and activities throughout, every individual finds their place. The design embraces light, truth, and courage — a living embodiment of Northeastern’s commitment to excellence in all forms.
Jim Madigan, Northeastern University's Director of Athletics and Recreation, Former Ice Hockey Star, and Men’s Ice Hockey Coach
By integrating high-performance systems, renewable energy, and sustainable materials, the facility raises the bar for environmentally responsible sports venues. Designed as an all-electric building, it will feature a hybrid ground source and air source heat pump system, supported by 46 geo-exchange wells. The building’s facade is engineered for performance, coupled with a rooftop solar array to maximize on-site renewable energy. A 100,000-gallon cistern will collect rainwater for ice-making, irrigation, and greywater use, reducing demand on municipal water systems and improving stormwater resiliency.
As a gateway to Northeastern’s campus, the facility aims to showcase a culture of excellence for all students. Circulation pathways throughout the building will connect diverse programs, celebrate student body achievements, and promote engagement with the building beyond sporting events. Flexible club space, visible from the arena and outdoors, will be utilized for a variety of student and community events. The fitness center and recreation courts are embedded within public access areas, inviting all use the shared facilities. Private team spaces for varsity athletics will reflect Northeastern’s Husky brand and inspire athletes across practices and game days.
Project Team
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