EDMONTON — Today the University of Alberta is sharing a first look at the new exterior for the Universiade Pavilion, commonly known as the Butterdome. This building envelope renovation will acknowledge the building’s past and incorporate modern and improved design elements (media kit linked below).
Central to the new design is a palette of green and gold that draws from the university’s colours and reflects the surrounding river valley’s fall foliage. A lighting feature, inspired by the curves of the North Saskatchewan River, will wind across the new exterior and brighten the university campus at night.
Added windows will allow more natural light into the space and establish a new relationship between the building and the street, making the building brighter and more welcoming.
Known for its distinctive appearance, Universiade Pavilion has hosted everything from sporting events to ceremonies, career shows and craft fairs, as well as provincial emergency response operations, for more than 40 years and has become a local landmark.
However, the building’s cladding has reached the end of its practical life, with some of its panels gathering rust and damage causing leaks in the building. Due to the existing building shape, snow and ice can slide from the roof onto sidewalks below, requiring the university to install protective scaffolding during colder months. The new design will correct this issue.
When it was created, Universiade Pavilion was billed as a field house for the future. This new envelope uses current sustainable architecture practices to achieve energy savings. In addition, solar panels will be added to the building’s roof.
Site preparation work and sidewalk closures are underway, with the project expected to be completed in fall 2027.
Funding for the renewal is primarily provided through a $27-million grant from the Government of Alberta.
QUOTES
“The Butterdome is one of Edmonton’s most recognizable campus landmarks and a place where students, families, and communities have come together for more than four decades. This investment will modernize the building, improve safety, and extend its life while respecting its history and iconic design. By upgrading this facility with sustainable features and a renewed exterior, we are ensuring it continues to serve the University of Alberta and the wider community for generations to come.”
Myles McDougall, Minister of Advanced Education, Government of Alberta
“For decades the Butterdome has been a home for athletic tournaments and so much more. From celebrating high school graduations to hosting the annual craft sale — and even serving as a safe space during a provincial crisis — it has consistently brought people together. This funding will ensure the Universiade Pavilion, as it's officially known, continues to welcome and serve the community at the University of Alberta for generations to come.”
Todd Gilchrist, Vice-president, University Services, Operations and Finance
Media kit is available here. All images and video can be attributed to ACI Architects.
For more information, please contact:
Riley Tjosvold | University of Alberta communications coordinator | riley.tjosvold@ualberta.ca