Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre: A Landmark Mass Timber Recreation Center

A New Vision for Ice Arenas and Community Spaces

The Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre in Burnaby, British Columbia, redefines the conventional ice arena with its innovative use of mass timber, natural light, and an open, community-oriented layout. Designed by hcma architecture + design, this 8,547-square-meter facility merges high-performance ice sports with a warm, inviting atmosphere, setting a new standard for recreational architecture.

Rejecting the traditional model of windowless, steel-trussed ice rinks, the recreation center introduces a design that prioritizes comfort and inclusivity. A distinctive hybrid steel-timber roof system allows for expansive clerestories, flooding the rinks with soft north-facing light while maintaining optimal ice quality. This approach ensures a visually connected, welcoming environment that extends beyond the ice, fostering a dynamic public gathering space.

The Structural Innovation of Mass Timber

Central to the design is the use of mass timber, which shapes both the aesthetics and the technical performance of the center. The hybrid steel-timber system was chosen for its geometric flexibility, ease of construction, and sustainable qualities. Glulam beams serve as both structural supports and architectural elements, reinforcing the warmth and durability of the space. Nail-laminated timber (NLT) is utilized for the lobby’s decking system, contributing to acoustic comfort while enhancing the natural material palette.

The architectural composition balances robust engineering with visual softness. The open, transparent structure allows visitors to engage with the space, whether they are on the ice, in the viewing galleries, or using the multipurpose rooms. The interplay between timber elements and abundant daylight creates a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments, emphasizing a connection to nature.

A Thoughtful Spatial Arrangement

The compact site necessitated an innovative arrangement of the facility’s two NHL-sized ice sheets. Positioned in an L-shape, these rinks converge at a central lobby, ensuring fluid circulation and an intuitive user experience. This design strategy enhances the interaction between the ice surfaces and communal spaces, transforming the building into an inviting civic hub.

Beyond the rink, the recreation center incorporates diverse programming. Multipurpose rooms accommodate activities ranging from pickleball and Pilates to community events and social gatherings. Elevated warm-side viewing galleries offer comfortable spaces for spectators, while informal play areas provide opportunities for children to engage in self-directed recreation. The thoughtful layering of functions makes the center an inclusive space for athletes, families, and community members alike.

Inclusive and Sustainable Design

Accessibility and inclusivity are integral to the design philosophy of the Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre. Braille and tactile signage, developed by hcma’s Communication Design team, ensure that all visitors can navigate the space with ease. The commitment to inclusivity extends to the facility’s programming, welcoming individuals of all abilities to participate in recreational and competitive activities.

Sustainability is another defining feature of the project. The use of mass timber not only enhances the center’s aesthetic appeal but also contributes to a lower carbon footprint. The careful selection of materials, combined with energy-efficient lighting and ventilation strategies, aligns with contemporary environmental design standards.

A Legacy for Future Generations

Named in honor of Rosemary Brown, a pioneering advocate for social justice, the recreation center embodies her legacy by fostering a sense of belonging and community. More than just an ice arena, the facility serves as a gathering place where individuals can connect, compete, and create lasting memories.

As Burnaby’s Southgate community continues to grow, the Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre stands as a testament to the evolving role of mass timber in contemporary architecture. By merging high-performance sports facilities with a warm and inclusive environment, it sets a new precedent for recreational design, demonstrating how architecture can enhance both community engagement and environmental responsibility.

All Photographs are works of Ema Peter