Virginia Tech Cassell Coliseum

Prior to the involvement of Train & Partners, Cassell Coliseum, home court of Virginia Tech basketball, had received few updates since construction in 1964. With a sense of urgency, the Virginia Tech Athletic Department hired our team to modernize the concession facilities and revitalize the space.

The first phase of the design, completed in November 2002, infused drama into the circulation spaces. We exposed the underside of the concrete structure of the bowl (long hidden behind a suspended ceiling) along the east and west walking areas. In addition, we introduced a tilted, wood-paneled wall at the concession counters, clerestory windows, and a new lighting scheme.

As is expected, VT school logos, colors, and themes are prominent throughout. New "hokie" stone surrounds enhance the existing portals.

While respecting the strength of the original design, the enhancements add excitement by revealing the geometry of the original structure. Attention to detail extends from careful integration of new mechanical systems to new signage that matches the original typeface from the 1964 project.