UM Sports Bubble

University of Minnesota

JLG Architects was selected to design an inflatable structure for year round athletic use. The inflatable structure accommodates indoor soccer, rugby, and other field sports. The inflatable structure is being designed to be removed each spring and reinstalled each fall. The artificial turf playing field will perform well under the inflatable structure, and will also extend the playing season in early spring and late fall with a more reliable drained surface. There is an extensive subsurface drainage system below the artificial turf to drain the area properly.

The inflatable structure is placed on the site to connect with an existing pedestrian walkway that extends from the University campus to the Bierman Track, the Softball Stadium, and the inflatable structure. A small support building anchors the facility, with an office, toilets and changing rooms, storage, mechanical and electrical spaces, and a small lobby.