Travel along Willamette Street past Civic Park and you’re certain
to notice the flurry of recent construction activity occurring there. Rapidly
taking shape is the second and final phase for Civic Park. As they did for project’s
initial phase, Chambers Construction is leading the construction effort for Phase
2, which will see the completion of the facility’s stadium seating, spectator
concourse, press box, public restrooms, and more. Chambers anticipates wrapping
everything up before the turn of the calendar to 2025.
As I described back in 2017, Skylab Architecture of Portland led the design effort for Civic Park, while Robertson/Sherwood/Architects (RSA) served as the architect-of-record.
The key members of the talented Skylab team were Design Principal Jeff Kovel,
AIA, and Senior Associate Jamin AAsum, AIA. I enjoyed the privilege of
working alongside them as RSA’s project manager.
Following is a terrific interview with Jamin, conducted in-house this
past spring by Skylab’s marketing team. In it, he recalls the project’s
genesis, his key role in assisting the Eugene Civic Alliance and KIDSPORTS with
the development of the earliest concepts for the project, and subsequently
helping to resurrect it in the aftermath of the June 2015 fire that reduced the old Civic Stadium to ashes. Skylab regards this transcript of the interview as
source material for use in their future proposals and marketing efforts. I thank them
for kindly allowing me to publish it here on my blog.
PROJECT INTERVIEW CIVIC PARK
Interview with Jamin AAsum, Senior Associate
5 April 2024
5 April 2024
Jamin AAsum, AIA
How did the project come to
us?
So, it all started with my wife. She's involved with a non-profit back in Eugene, where she lived for two decades, and that's where this whole project unfolded. There was an iconic old wood baseball stadium from the 1930s, a true landmark in the city. It had been a community effort back in the Depression, a place with a rich history. People remember going there for Fourth of July celebrations and local baseball games for decades. All the high schools even held graduations there. But by the time I got involved, things were rough. The Eugene Emeralds, a Minor League team, had left a couple years prior, and the stadium itself was in disuse and disrepair. The city even wanted to tear it down. There were other proposals on the table, like selling it to Fred Meyer for a new store.
That's when I got connected with a local non-profit called KIDSPORTS. They had allied with a local group that wanted to preserve the stadium they idea was to build a new fieldhouse next to the stadium and keep using the field and the stadium itself for community events. They asked me to help design it pro bono. For a year, I did just that—designing the fieldhouse, creating renderings, and even helping them put together proposals for the city.
Out of all that effort, a new non-profit called Eugene Civic Alliance (ECA) was formed. They raised enough money to buy the stadium, which was fantastic news. We were just getting ready to move forward with the design and construction when disaster struck. Five or six kids playing with matches accidentally started a fire in the fieldhouse. It was all wood, and, although the fire station was just a few blocks away by the time they arrived, the place was a complete loss.
This huge setback called for a quick response. They called me right away, asking if I could come down the next day to help them re-imagine the whole project. So, over that weekend, I basically sketched out a whole new plan on the fly—a new stadium and a new fieldhouse. It actually turned out to be a better solution in the end.
That's when things really took off. Skylab was invited to submit a proposal for the design work, and I already had a history with the project. We teamed up with a local architect and a landscape company that I'd been doing pro bono work with—basically the perfect team already in place. I already knew all the key players, so it was a natural fit. That's how we landed the job.
So, it all started with my wife. She's involved with a non-profit back in Eugene, where she lived for two decades, and that's where this whole project unfolded. There was an iconic old wood baseball stadium from the 1930s, a true landmark in the city. It had been a community effort back in the Depression, a place with a rich history. People remember going there for Fourth of July celebrations and local baseball games for decades. All the high schools even held graduations there. But by the time I got involved, things were rough. The Eugene Emeralds, a Minor League team, had left a couple years prior, and the stadium itself was in disuse and disrepair. The city even wanted to tear it down. There were other proposals on the table, like selling it to Fred Meyer for a new store.
That's when I got connected with a local non-profit called KIDSPORTS. They had allied with a local group that wanted to preserve the stadium they idea was to build a new fieldhouse next to the stadium and keep using the field and the stadium itself for community events. They asked me to help design it pro bono. For a year, I did just that—designing the fieldhouse, creating renderings, and even helping them put together proposals for the city.
Out of all that effort, a new non-profit called Eugene Civic Alliance (ECA) was formed. They raised enough money to buy the stadium, which was fantastic news. We were just getting ready to move forward with the design and construction when disaster struck. Five or six kids playing with matches accidentally started a fire in the fieldhouse. It was all wood, and, although the fire station was just a few blocks away by the time they arrived, the place was a complete loss.
This huge setback called for a quick response. They called me right away, asking if I could come down the next day to help them re-imagine the whole project. So, over that weekend, I basically sketched out a whole new plan on the fly—a new stadium and a new fieldhouse. It actually turned out to be a better solution in the end.
That's when things really took off. Skylab was invited to submit a proposal for the design work, and I already had a history with the project. We teamed up with a local architect and a landscape company that I'd been doing pro bono work with—basically the perfect team already in place. I already knew all the key players, so it was a natural fit. That's how we landed the job.
I want to say that it burned down in 2015, and the first phase was constructed in 2018. The whole project was a massive undertaking—around $35 million. It was a huge fundraising effort for a non-profit in Eugene. They couldn't raise everything at once, so they prioritized the fieldhouse and the field itself. Building the field was a challenge in itself—the ground turned out to be a swamp, requiring expensive dewatering work. They secured federal funding from a local congressman who got them federal money, and they secured $6 million from Oregon lottery funds. The plan was always to raise the rest for the stadium in a second phase, but that proved difficult. However, a seemingly small detail proved crucial—the permits for the entire project had to be obtained all at once. This meant they had to do some minor construction along the way, every year, just to keep the permits valid. This turned out to be a lifesaver, as it essentially kept the project alive over the course of several years. They never lost sight of the ultimate goal, and remarkably, they're building the second phase of the project exactly according to the design we originally created.
So, what are they building now?
Construction of the stadium itself is underway. It's built into the side of a hill, with major streets flanking both sides of the site. The fieldhouse is already up on the east side. On the west side, the ground slopes to meet the west side street and the stadium's concourse level. The stadium will seat just under 3,000 fans, and construction is progressing. The field level area will house locker rooms, referee rooms, storage, laundry facilities, and the like. Up on the concourse level, we have restrooms that cater to the stadium crowd and a press box. They're also planning concession areas that could potentially host food trucks and other vendors.
Who's going to use this facility in addition to them?
The key thing to remember is that this is a community facility. But it's also designed to be self-sustaining for the Eugene Civic Alliance non-profit. Their financial projections showed that renting the stadium out for various events would be a viable income source that might make them self-sustaining. This includes all the things that used to happen there – high school games, for example. There's even a local semi-pro soccer team that will call it their home field. So, it'll be a multi-use space, accommodating both soccer and football, allowing the high schools to continue their football tradition there as well. Why did they feel Skylab was the right fit for them? Nancy Webber(1), who had managed Obama's presidential campaign in Oregon, played a pivotal role in the project. Her political experience made her a shrewd fundraiser and negotiator, and she was determined to achieve a top-notch design. Nonprofits often operate with limited resources and settle for what they can afford. But Nancy believed KIDSPORTS, a remarkable organization serving 16,000 kids annually through after-school programs, deserved the best design. She knew my work and Skylab's reputation for design excellence, and she championed our involvement. There were additional connections: the builder of both our houses in Eugene and Portland also built hers. Nancy's familiarity with me spanned various aspects of our lives and created a strong foundation for collaboration. She actively sought Skylab's participation and advocated for us throughout the process.
What else can you tell us about their goals? For the project? What did the client do other than just the programming you have already mentioned? What did they need this project to do?
The name "Civic Alliance" reflects the project's focus on serving the community. While KIDSPORTS is the primary tenant, acting as the flagship program, the park's vision extends beyond youth athletics. Once the stadium is complete, it will cater to a broader range of users, transforming the perception of the space.
The location is truly prime real estate. Situated directly across from South Eugene High School—the largest, oldest, and arguably most esteemed high school in Eugene—Civic Park sits at the heart of a recreational hub. The surrounding area boasts a city pool, miles of bark dust jogging trails, softball fields, tennis courts, community pools and a YMCA. This central location ensures the project's high visibility, making it a landmark recognized by everyone in Eugene.
From a design perspective was
there anything that this project needed to do, or was dictated as part of the
creative brief from the client?
There was definitely an initial element of surprise about the process of designing. I believe everyone involved gradually became design enthusiasts as the project progressed. Once construction was complete, their appreciation for design truly solidified.
Nancy Webber played a crucial role advocating for design excellence. She functioned as our voice throughout discussions, emphasizing the importance of exceptional design. Our Eugene-based partner architect, Robertson/Sherwood/Architects, while serving as the Architect-of-Record, also championed our design vision. Although we were the design architects, they fiercely protected our work and meticulously guided all design aspects through the project. Their dedication continues even now, as they still reach out for our input on details like color choices and implementation methods.
Skylab values Narrative, Strategy and Regeneration. What inspired the design that we ended up proposing to them?
Chambers Construction, a major Eugene firm and strong supporter of Civic Alliance and KIDSPORTS, was chosen as the general contractor (GC) for the project. We collaborated closely with them throughout the process.
Budget was a significant concern, especially for such a large building with four basketball courts requiring a vast open space. Chambers Construction initially proposed a pre-engineered metal building system from Butler, a common choice for cost-effectiveness. While hesitant about aesthetics, we saw an opportunity. We proposed a plan to "tweak" Butler's system while still reaping the cost benefits. The exposed structural elements inside became a unique feature. Unlike typical hot rolled steel beams, the Butler system consisted of steel plates assembled together to make beams and columns. This ended up creating a more substantial and almost athletic feel, and really reflecting the building's purpose.
A primary focus was the building's "skin"—its exterior. We utilized a commonly used box-ribbed metal panel system, but with a twist. We employed two different scales of the panels and strategically divided the building, creating a zipper-like effect that visually suggests movement. Additionally, we incorporated splashes of silver metal panels throughout, originally intended as windows but ultimately transformed into design elements that echoed the green accents in the glass.
The green theme continued inside. We opted for a fully immersive green color palette, incorporating over 20 different shades. Even the wooden gym floor received a green wash treatment. This extensive use of green, combined with the natural light filtering through the green-tinted glass, creates a cathedral-like atmosphere.
Finally, we addressed the conference room located on the second floor. My vision was to make it feel like the occupants of the room were a watchful presence overlooking the entire facility. This room, filled with portraits of donors and key figures, cantilevers over the entrance and out towards the field at an angle. Gesturing towards the youth. This unique element further enhances the dynamic interplay between functionality and design.
There was definitely an initial element of surprise about the process of designing. I believe everyone involved gradually became design enthusiasts as the project progressed. Once construction was complete, their appreciation for design truly solidified.
Nancy Webber played a crucial role advocating for design excellence. She functioned as our voice throughout discussions, emphasizing the importance of exceptional design. Our Eugene-based partner architect, Robertson/Sherwood/Architects, while serving as the Architect-of-Record, also championed our design vision. Although we were the design architects, they fiercely protected our work and meticulously guided all design aspects through the project. Their dedication continues even now, as they still reach out for our input on details like color choices and implementation methods.
Skylab values Narrative, Strategy and Regeneration. What inspired the design that we ended up proposing to them?
Chambers Construction, a major Eugene firm and strong supporter of Civic Alliance and KIDSPORTS, was chosen as the general contractor (GC) for the project. We collaborated closely with them throughout the process.
Budget was a significant concern, especially for such a large building with four basketball courts requiring a vast open space. Chambers Construction initially proposed a pre-engineered metal building system from Butler, a common choice for cost-effectiveness. While hesitant about aesthetics, we saw an opportunity. We proposed a plan to "tweak" Butler's system while still reaping the cost benefits. The exposed structural elements inside became a unique feature. Unlike typical hot rolled steel beams, the Butler system consisted of steel plates assembled together to make beams and columns. This ended up creating a more substantial and almost athletic feel, and really reflecting the building's purpose.
A primary focus was the building's "skin"—its exterior. We utilized a commonly used box-ribbed metal panel system, but with a twist. We employed two different scales of the panels and strategically divided the building, creating a zipper-like effect that visually suggests movement. Additionally, we incorporated splashes of silver metal panels throughout, originally intended as windows but ultimately transformed into design elements that echoed the green accents in the glass.
The green theme continued inside. We opted for a fully immersive green color palette, incorporating over 20 different shades. Even the wooden gym floor received a green wash treatment. This extensive use of green, combined with the natural light filtering through the green-tinted glass, creates a cathedral-like atmosphere.
Finally, we addressed the conference room located on the second floor. My vision was to make it feel like the occupants of the room were a watchful presence overlooking the entire facility. This room, filled with portraits of donors and key figures, cantilevers over the entrance and out towards the field at an angle. Gesturing towards the youth. This unique element further enhances the dynamic interplay between functionality and design.
What were the challenges we encountered while designing the project?
The project wasn't without its challenges. Nonprofits are led by volunteer boards, and ours required regular presentations to ensure financial stewardship. Convincing them of the value of the design and keeping them on board throughout the process demanded a concerted effort.
To address these challenges, I started commuting to the architect's office in downtown Eugene by train with my bike. This fostered a strong personal connection with both the architect and the landscape architect. Weekly owner-architect-contractor meetings further solidified these relationships. This frequent and open communication proved invaluable in guiding our design vision through the construction phase.
Chambers Construction, thankfully, proved to be a respectful partner who understood our design intent. Notably, in collaboration with the landscape architect, Jeff played a key role in designing a cohesive system around the field. This system seamlessly integrated the building with the stadium and the surrounding site, which sits nestled into a hillside.
Can you say more about how we did that? How do we integrate it?
The landscape design incorporated the "Skylab touch"—where various angles harmonize to create a cohesive aesthetic. Originally, berms with trees were planned around the field, but this concept was rejected due to concerns about encroaching on playing space. Another alteration involved extending the artificial turf to the edges, eliminating the berms entirely.
Despite these changes, the overall landscape plan remains a prominent feature. The building's integration into the hillside is evident in stadium photos and construction updates. A significant expense was the massive retaining wall, stretching the length of a football field or even longer. This two-foot-thick wall with a complex drainage system was necessary due to the slope behind it, which previously channeled water into a nearby swamp.
To address this water challenge and contribute to ecological regeneration, a 150-foot swale was constructed along the building's east side. This swale collects and purifies water before it re-enters the ecosystem via Amazon Creek, which ultimately flows into the river.
Water management was considered a crucial aspect of the project, not just a challenge to overcome. The natural drainage system swales and restored habitat are key features. The field's layered drainage system, designed by the landscape architect with technical expertise, ensures the field remains consistently perfect in wettest winters.
View of the concourse, looking north. The restrooms building is to the left, and the press box is on the right.
What other hidden opportunity
or moment did we uncover?
To achieve cost-efficiency and facilitate phased construction, the stadium design utilized a unique approach. Instead of traditional concrete construction for seating areas, a framework was built. This elevated the concourse 20-25 feet above the field, allowing for programmatic space below. We then adapted an off-the-shelf aluminum bleacher system to seamlessly integrate within this framework.
As with any Skylab project, we creatively treated these standard components. Additionally, a separate system incorporated flags, signage, and other graphic elements to unify the visual experience and connect it to the game atmosphere. For example, the exit passageways from the field to the underside of the stadium, sometimes referred to as "vomitoria," were incorporated with color and graphics.
Previously, KIDSPORTS and the stadium had minimal graphic elements. I collaborated with Nancy Weber to bring Downstream on board. Their task was to develop a comprehensive graphic identity for both the project and KIDSPORTS. Essentially, Nancy was urging KIDSPORTS to embrace a modern approach with a professional branding strategy, including fonts, colors, and a thematic look that would integrate with the architecture.
Amy DeVall, Interior Designer at Skylab, created a striking green color scheme with a tonal range. Initially, it was a challenging sell to the client and the board. Eugene has a certain aesthetic, and some people worried the design would be too similar to the University of Oregon's branding. There was a concern about straying too far from a perceived "Eugene identity." We argued that KIDSPORTS could have its own unique identity while maintaining consistency across its messaging and marketing materials. Thankfully, the green scheme has been very well-received, and even Skylab, with some initial reservations about the extensive green, now recognizes how effectively it unifies the entire space. The overall experience is one of complete cohesion, and I'm excited to see how the stadium integrates into this visual landscape.
What did you think was the coolest design solution that was kind of offered?
I'm particularly impressed by how Jeff's landscape design iterations introduced a sense of movement; what Nike might call "kineticism." The diagonal lines he incorporated became a recurring motif throughout the project. This is evident in everything from the signage to the monument street signs.
One of my personal favorites is the entry signage. It resembles a lightning bolt and serves multiple purposes. It prominently displays the building's main signage but also integrates the donor wall, a timeline, and some graphics silkscreened by Downstream. Multiple panels stretch roughly 60 feet, and guide visitors entering the building. As you pass the stairs, you transition into the main building area.
The project was completed a few months before the pandemic. During that challenging time, I received a call from Bev Smith, who had recently succeeded Nancy Weber as the leader of the Civic Alliance. Bev, a two-time Canadian Olympic basketball player and former UO coach, expressed her immense gratitude. She called our design "genius" and credited it with saving KIDSPORTS as an organization by allowing them to function during the covid lockdown.
Previously, KIDSPORTS relied on after-school programs delivered directly at various schools. Coaches would transport equipment from a central location, creating logistical challenges. With school closures and restricted access to fields during COVID, KIDSPORTS' entire operation was at risk.
Fortunately, the new facility, with its design and multiple entrances, proved to be a lifesaver. Separate entry points from the field, originally planned for coaches, kids and injured players, and a clear front entrance allowed for program segregation and safe operation outdoors and indoors. Bev couldn't contain her enthusiasm, calling me multiple times during COVID to express how perfectly the design functioned. It met all their needs and exceeded expectations.
Personally, this project ranks among the most fulfilling of my career. The positive feedback, the beautiful and innovative design, the sustainability aspects—it truly checks all the boxes. Most importantly, it serves as a valuable and cherished community resource.
Rendering showing the completed Phase 2.
To achieve cost-efficiency and facilitate phased construction, the stadium design utilized a unique approach. Instead of traditional concrete construction for seating areas, a framework was built. This elevated the concourse 20-25 feet above the field, allowing for programmatic space below. We then adapted an off-the-shelf aluminum bleacher system to seamlessly integrate within this framework.
As with any Skylab project, we creatively treated these standard components. Additionally, a separate system incorporated flags, signage, and other graphic elements to unify the visual experience and connect it to the game atmosphere. For example, the exit passageways from the field to the underside of the stadium, sometimes referred to as "vomitoria," were incorporated with color and graphics.
Previously, KIDSPORTS and the stadium had minimal graphic elements. I collaborated with Nancy Weber to bring Downstream on board. Their task was to develop a comprehensive graphic identity for both the project and KIDSPORTS. Essentially, Nancy was urging KIDSPORTS to embrace a modern approach with a professional branding strategy, including fonts, colors, and a thematic look that would integrate with the architecture.
Amy DeVall, Interior Designer at Skylab, created a striking green color scheme with a tonal range. Initially, it was a challenging sell to the client and the board. Eugene has a certain aesthetic, and some people worried the design would be too similar to the University of Oregon's branding. There was a concern about straying too far from a perceived "Eugene identity." We argued that KIDSPORTS could have its own unique identity while maintaining consistency across its messaging and marketing materials. Thankfully, the green scheme has been very well-received, and even Skylab, with some initial reservations about the extensive green, now recognizes how effectively it unifies the entire space. The overall experience is one of complete cohesion, and I'm excited to see how the stadium integrates into this visual landscape.
What did you think was the coolest design solution that was kind of offered?
I'm particularly impressed by how Jeff's landscape design iterations introduced a sense of movement; what Nike might call "kineticism." The diagonal lines he incorporated became a recurring motif throughout the project. This is evident in everything from the signage to the monument street signs.
One of my personal favorites is the entry signage. It resembles a lightning bolt and serves multiple purposes. It prominently displays the building's main signage but also integrates the donor wall, a timeline, and some graphics silkscreened by Downstream. Multiple panels stretch roughly 60 feet, and guide visitors entering the building. As you pass the stairs, you transition into the main building area.
The project was completed a few months before the pandemic. During that challenging time, I received a call from Bev Smith, who had recently succeeded Nancy Weber as the leader of the Civic Alliance. Bev, a two-time Canadian Olympic basketball player and former UO coach, expressed her immense gratitude. She called our design "genius" and credited it with saving KIDSPORTS as an organization by allowing them to function during the covid lockdown.
Previously, KIDSPORTS relied on after-school programs delivered directly at various schools. Coaches would transport equipment from a central location, creating logistical challenges. With school closures and restricted access to fields during COVID, KIDSPORTS' entire operation was at risk.
Fortunately, the new facility, with its design and multiple entrances, proved to be a lifesaver. Separate entry points from the field, originally planned for coaches, kids and injured players, and a clear front entrance allowed for program segregation and safe operation outdoors and indoors. Bev couldn't contain her enthusiasm, calling me multiple times during COVID to express how perfectly the design functioned. It met all their needs and exceeded expectations.
Personally, this project ranks among the most fulfilling of my career. The positive feedback, the beautiful and innovative design, the sustainability aspects—it truly checks all the boxes. Most importantly, it serves as a valuable and cherished community resource.
Anything more you'd like to
say about the sustainability strategies that we used on this?
Daylighting was a major consideration for the courts, but budget constraints ultimately led to a compromise. We utilized a daylighting model tested at the UO's daylighting lab to optimize natural light penetration. While initial plans included skylights for complete daylight operation, they were removed due to cost. However, the current design allows for play during the day using only natural light from the east wall, especially during early mornings when the sun doesn't hit the opposing side. This aligns perfectly with after-school program schedules.
The offices on the west side of the second floor have deep sunscreens integrated into the window system to manage afternoon sun exposure.
Daylighting was a major consideration for the courts, but budget constraints ultimately led to a compromise. We utilized a daylighting model tested at the UO's daylighting lab to optimize natural light penetration. While initial plans included skylights for complete daylight operation, they were removed due to cost. However, the current design allows for play during the day using only natural light from the east wall, especially during early mornings when the sun doesn't hit the opposing side. This aligns perfectly with after-school program schedules.
The offices on the west side of the second floor have deep sunscreens integrated into the window system to manage afternoon sun exposure.
We previously discussed how
the natural landscape influenced the stadium's nestled design. Here's another
interesting detail: On the north side of the property, there was an existing
pathway connecting the neighborhood on the hilltop to the high school. The city
facilitated negotiations with Civic Lions Club, who donated a small triangular
parcel of land for a park. This donation included a landscaped pathway
dedicated to a local female cyclist, athlete, and youth advocate who tragically
passed away. The pathway has a special name that I can't recall at the moment,
but it holds significant meaning to the community. This Z-shaped path winds
down the north side, separate from the fenced area around the field and
stadium, creating a peaceful community space that beautifully integrates giving
back to the community. An additional safety measure implemented was a stoplight
to assist children crossing the busy Amazon Parkway.
(1) Sadly, Nancy passed away recently. She would have been so happy to see Phase 2 fully realized.
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