Universiade Pavilion Envelope Renewal

The Universiade Pavilion as it will appear from the Kipnes Academy.

The Universiade Pavilion as it will appear from the sidewalk on 87th Avenue.

The Universiade Pavilion as it will appear from the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium.

The Universiade Pavilion as it will appear from the Varsity Field.

The Universiade Pavilion as it will appear from the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium during sunrise.

The Universiade Pavilion as it will appear from 87th Avenue at night.

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The University of Alberta is replacing the building envelope of the Universiade Pavilion, commonly known as the Butterdome. The renewal will transform the facility to be more energy efficient and resilient, while addressing issues of leaking and rust and eliminate the risk of falling snow and ice during the winter.

This project builds on the university’s commitment to improving campus-wide efficiency and sustainability, while ensuring the facility continues to provide access to athletics, recreation, events and activities for our people and serve as a valuable public asset into the future.

Project phases

• Phase 1 - Investigation and Strategy (September-December, 2024)

• Phase 2 - Procurement and Early Design (January – November 2025)

• Phase 3 - Final design, material procurement, early construction (November 2025 – May 2026)

• Phase 4 - Main construction period (May 2026 – Fall 2027) with possible building closure from March – December 2026

Answers to frequently asked questions

How was the design chosen?

There were several important factors guiding the design of the building envelope upgrade, with long-term sustainability at the forefront. The renewal honours key elements of the original design, while focusing on future resilience.

How was the project funded?

The project is primarily funded through a $27 million Capital Maintenance and Renewal grant from the Government of Alberta. Additional funding was provided by the university through the Energy and Climate Action team to support targeted upgrades to interior lighting, controls, and other energy-efficiency improvements aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing overall sustainability.

Why can’t you just replace the exterior panels?

The current envelope system is facing several challenges. Simply replacing the existing porcelain-enameled steel panels would not improve energy efficiency or address issues such as leaks, rust and hazards from falling snow and ice caused by the current design.

I use the facility for sports and recreation. How will I be affected?

We hope to keep the facility open for sports and recreation whenever possible, however there will be a period when the building is closed for construction. We will provide notice of any closures and suggestions on alternate facilities within the facility.

I use the facility to host events. What should I be aware of?

We hope to maintain access to the facility for events and activities whenever possible, however there will be a period when the building is closed for construction. All affected and potential clients will be engaged in the forthcoming phases. To find out if your booking is affected, contact bookings@ualberta.ca.

Will anything change inside the building?
While the project focuses on the exterior of the building, the new design will allow more natural light into the space, which will change the experience from inside. We’re also using this opportunity for energy efficient enhancements, such as upgrading interior lighting to LEDs, which will be funded separately.