Combining the best of traditional design with modern amenities, the John Paul Jones Arena at the University of Virginia is the largest arena in the Commonwealth of Virginia and home to the University’s Men’s and Women’s basketball teams.
With growing concern by the school’s alumni that the University needed to replace the aging University Hall, Ellerbe Becket, an AECOM company, was commissioned on May 30, 2003, to begin construction on the first facility in the country built by a public university almost entirely from private funds.
Completed in 2006, the arena’s most prominent feature is the grand pergola crowning the main entrance – a distinctive design feature that echoes the architectural style of the university’s founder, Thomas Jefferson. In addition to its modern amenities, such as an inviting entry plaza, wide concourses, 20 luxury suites and more than 100 court side seats, the arena’s unique, horseshoe-shaped seating bowl gives visitors a special view. While seats ring the court, one end of the seating bowl’s upper deck is open, allowing guests to look at stunning views of the larger campus and its hallmark architecture of red brick with white accents.
The arena hosts to a myriad of attractions including concerts, family shows, exhibits, trade shows, and community events. John Paul Jones Arena has hosted many of the biggest acts in live entertainment, including Dave Matthews Band, The Police, Eric Clapton, The Eagles, Lady Gaga, Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett, Justin Timberlake, Jay-Z, Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Keith Urban, George Strait, The Dead, Phish, Jason Aldean, and The Red Hot Chili Peppers.
In addition to adding value to the collegiate community, the John Paul Jones Arena has won the following industry accolades:
Best New College Basketball Arena in the country over the last decade – Sports Illustrated Magazine
Gold Winner for New Commercial Building – Brick in Architecture
Facility of Merit Award – Athletic Business Magazine
Best New Major Concert Venue – Pollstar Concert Industry Awards
Partners
VMDO Architects PA: Architect of Record | Workshop Design LLC: Signage and Wayfinding | Barton Malow: Construction Manager