Design firms HOK and Dialog have been selected to design Calgary’s new $550 million event centre. The new building was approved by city council last year to replace the iconic but aging Saddledome.
Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC) says the companies were chosen based on their combined relevant expertise, thoughtful understanding of the guiding principles of the project and connection to how the event centre will contribute to, and fit within, the area supporting a vibrant Culture & Entertainment District. The companies also worked together to design Edmonton’s downtown arena, Rogers Place.
“Our passion for collaboration and combined experience in providing state-of-the-art design solutions, backed by thorough technical sport and entertainment expertise will create an unparalleled visitor experience,” says Rob Adamson, principal, Dialog. “Our design team is proud to have the capacity and experience to tailor the design of the Event Centre with the needs of Calgarians at the forefront. We are committed to this project team and look forward to working along side our partners to successfully deliver this project.”
Calgary’s CANA, which built the original Saddledome, and U.S.-based Mortenson Construction earned the construction contracts.
“The event centre will be a year-round entertainment facility that will serve as an extraordinary civic amenity for Calgarians and visitors to enjoy for generations to come,” says Kate Thompson, president and CEO, CMLC. “First and foremost, we were looking for a team to work alongside us for the next five years, we’re confident in our selection of Dialog and HOK and CANA and Mortenson based on their collective experience, capabilities and understanding to deliver a venue that demonstrates Calgary’s pride and spirit.”
The centre is part of the revitalization work in east Victoria Park and the third major community-building project ongoing in the Rivers District—after the BMO Centre expansion and 17th Avenue Extension.
Construction of the Event Centre is set to begin in August 2021, with completion slated for May 2024.
