At the center of the University of Southern California (USC) campus lies the heart of Trojan athletic tradition – Heritage Hall. Opened in 1971, Heritage Hall served as the home of USC's Department of Intercollegiate Athletics for more than 40 years. DLR Group's design for the modernization enables USC to celebrate both the rich history and future excellence of its athletic tradition. The 2-story main lobby of Heritage Hall is now a light-filled Hall of Champions featuring a Spirit of Troy exhibit space celebrating the multiple NCAA Championships, Heisman Trophy winners, Olympians, legendary coaches, student athletes, and achievements of USC's 21 athletics programs. The lower level, accessible only to student athletes and athletic department staff, features a lounge for Women of Troy student-athletes, a new rowing room with 35 indoor ergometers, a new golf simulation lab with a virtual indoor driving range and a 6-hole putting green, and other spaces that support student-athletes and greatly assist in recruiting.
The scope of work for this project entailed a completed renovation of the existing 70,000 SF building that relocated existing services and provided new spaces for athlete programs. The 2-story museum lobby and athletic department offices on the first and second floors were renovated to feature floor to ceiling windows and views to practice fields and campus. The renovation added offices for USC athletic administrators and coaches, a sports performance center, and a dedicated television studio with a direct feed to the Pac-12 Network. The addition of skylights throughout the corridors and internal spaces of the lower level allow natural light to penetrate the space. An outdoor plaza was enhanced with decorative paving, a fountain, and on-grade skylights. An existing ancillary building was converted to a conference room and lounge, complete with a catering kitchen. DLR Group provided planning, architecture, and interior design services.