Arlen Specter US Squash Center
Project Information
Arlen Specter US Squash Center
Isett is proud to announce the completion of the Arlen Specter US Squash Center in Philadelphia, PA.
The building, located in the Armory at Drexel University, will serve as a host to US Squash and house its Hall of Fame and 18 singles and two doubles courts. The Drexel Armory dates back to 1916 and, in 1991, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
The US Squash project is both unique and challenging as the structure features a 50-foot-high roof line. In addition, a mezzanine/open walkway was designed to allow for viewing of the open squash courts below. Because of the building’s historic nature, the new elements cannot be tied into the existing building. The project requires coordination with additional consultants with a focus on the lighting and scoreboards.
Associates from Isett’s Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing Engineering & Fire Protection, as a consultant to Van Potteiger Architects, provided designs, drawings, and specifications to detail the new HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and fire protection systems. The Structural Engineering department designed framing and foundations for the new mezzanine and MEP equipment.
On June 9, 2021, the Center was honored at the 2021 Preservation Achievement Awards. Many more details, including floor plans, are available on their website.
The Arlen Specter US Squash Center officially opened to the neighborhood and the nation in July, 2021. Philadelphia Inquirer Columnist Inga Saffron wrote more about the building’s history and transformation into a premier Squash center, opening the doors for players of all walks of life to participate in the sport.
