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University of Idaho | ICCU Arena
Mass Timber Meets Modern Performance
A Landmark Arena Rooted in Innovation
Located in Moscow, Idaho, the ICCU Arena at the University of Idaho redefines collegiate sports architecture through the expressive use of mass timber and contemporary design. Designed by Opsis Architecture of Portland, Oregon, the 4,000-seat venue serves as both a state-of-the-art athletic facility and a living demonstration of innovation in timber construction. A custom timber curtain wall system anchors the building’s exterior, seamlessly integrating warmth, transparency, and structural performance. Constructed using 854 Douglas fir mass-timber beams sourced through Idaho’s experimental forest, the arena celebrates regional materials while showcasing what’s possible in modern mass-timber design. The project is captured through the lens of photographer Lara Swimmer.
A Landmark Arena Rooted in Innovation
Located in Moscow, Idaho, the ICCU Arena at the University of Idaho redefines collegiate sports architecture through the expressive use of mass timber and contemporary design. Designed by Opsis Architecture of Portland, Oregon, the 4,000-seat venue serves as both a state-of-the-art athletic facility and a living demonstration of innovation in timber construction. A custom timber curtain wall system anchors the building’s exterior, seamlessly integrating warmth, transparency, and structural performance. Constructed using 854 Douglas fir mass-timber beams sourced through Idaho’s experimental forest, the arena celebrates regional materials while showcasing what’s possible in modern mass-timber design. The project is captured through the lens of photographer Lara Swimmer.
Project Highlights
Design strategies that merge structural expression, material honesty, and user experience.
Timber Curtain Wall Integration
The timber curtain wall system fits seamlessly into the building’s overall design, allowing expansive glazed areas to reveal the warmth and scale of the mass-timber structure while providing visual connection between interior spaces and the campus beyond.
Celebrating Mass Timber at Scale
With 854 Douglas fir beams forming the backbone of the arena, the design highlights mass timber not only as a structural solution but as a defining architectural feature—bringing warmth, rhythm, and authenticity to a large-scale public venue.
Welcoming Spaces Beyond the Game
Generous glazing, open concourses, and clearly expressed timber elements create inviting circulation spaces that extend the arena’s role beyond athletics, making it a gathering place for students, fans, and the broader community.
Timber Curtain Wall Integration
The timber curtain wall system fits seamlessly into the building’s overall design, allowing expansive glazed areas to reveal the warmth and scale of the mass-timber structure while providing visual connection between interior spaces and the campus beyond.
Celebrating Mass Timber at Scale
With 854 Douglas fir beams forming the backbone of the arena, the design highlights mass timber not only as a structural solution but as a defining architectural feature—bringing warmth, rhythm, and authenticity to a large-scale public venue.
Welcoming Spaces Beyond the Game
Generous glazing, open concourses, and clearly expressed timber elements create inviting circulation spaces that extend the arena’s role beyond athletics, making it a gathering place for students, fans, and the broader community.
Attention to Detail in Every Connection
Material Selection: Douglas fir mass timber sourced through the university’s experimental forest reinforces regional identity and sustainability goals.
Architectural Expression: Exposed timber beams and integrated glazing emphasize structural clarity while maintaining a refined, modern aesthetic.
Daylighting Strategy: Large glazed areas introduce abundant natural light, enhancing interior comfort and reducing reliance on artificial lighting during daytime events.
Attention to Detail in Every Connection
Material Selection: Douglas fir mass timber sourced through the university’s experimental forest reinforces regional identity and sustainability goals.
Architectural Expression: Exposed timber beams and integrated glazing emphasize structural clarity while maintaining a refined, modern aesthetic
Daylighting Strategy: Large glazed areas introduce abundant natural light, enhancing interior comfort and reducing reliance on artificial lighting during daytime events.
An Arena Defined by Innovation and Warmth
The ICCU Arena stands as a bold example of how mass timber can transform large-scale athletic facilities into warm, expressive, and community-centered environments. Through thoughtful integration of timber curtain wall systems and regionally sourced materials, the project sets a new benchmark for performance-driven, sustainable design.
Architecture: Opsis Architecture | Photographer: Lara Swimmer
