Overview
Spanning 1.4 million square feet, the $2 billion Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, is a groundbreaking sports and entertainment venue and the new home of the NBA's Los Angeles Clippers.
Designed to enhance the fan experience, the arena features seating for 18,000 fans, four basketball courts, and innovative community spaces. The facility also includes an 85,000-square-foot practice facility, a 71,000-square-foot office space, a 25,000-square-foot sports medicine clinic, and 48,000 square feet dedicated to retail and dining. With a focus on sustainability and cutting-edge technology, the Intuit Dome sets a new standard for modern arenas.
Our Approach
The team was challenged to install an advanced HVAC system tailored to the arena's unique needs. The air delivery system required precise temperature control through a supply air system installed behind all seating, ensuring direct airflow for an optimal fan experience. To execute this, we designed and fabricated a system that operated within the constraints of exposed overhead utilities and ceilings soaring up to 160 feet. This effort included fabricating and installing over 1.35 million pounds of ductwork.
Unique project challenges we navigated included:
- Underground ductwork installation and crane coordination: Due to architectural design constraints, underground ductwork had to be installed early in the construction process while avoiding crane paths. Some sections required ductwork to be encased in slurry for added protection.
- High bay overhead installation: Installing large air handling units, exhaust fans, and ductwork in the arena's elevated ceiling required meticulous coordination. The team hoisted equipment into place and used a floating dance floor suspended over 160 feet in the air.
- Pre-cast concrete seating coordination: We collaborated with the pre-cast concrete contractor to seamlessly integrate the supply air system behind every stadium seat. Over 8,000 custom plenums and spun aluminum round grilles were pre-installed within the concrete forms to ensure cost-effective, precise installation.
As part of our scope of work on this project, we installed 42 air handling units, 38 grease scrubbers, and more than 350 fan coil units throughout the facility. Additionally, we implemented remote cooling towers and a modular central utility plant to enhance system efficiency and performance.
Result
Our contributions to the Intuit Dome went beyond installation — we delivered an advanced, high-performing mechanical system that enhances the arena's efficiency and fan experience. With 43,000 shop hours and 146,000 field hours dedicated to this project, our team ensured seamless execution at every stage. By overcoming complex logistical and design challenges, we provided seamless air distribution, ensuring optimal climate control for players, staff, and fans. Our meticulous planning and coordination helped the project meet sustainability targets, achieving LEED Platinum Certification with no net new greenhouse gas emissions.
Beyond construction, our engagement with the Intuit Dome continues through a comprehensive service contract that ensures ongoing system optimization and long-term reliability. By providing preventative maintenance, rapid response support, and performance monitoring, we help maximize efficiency, extend equipment lifespan, and uphold the arena's commitment to sustainability. This ongoing partnership underscores our ability to not only deliver complex mechanical systems, but also support their continued performance well into the future.
Successful Partnerships
Owner: Los Angeles Clippers
General Contractor: AECOM Hunt Turner NBA JV
Architect: AECOM
In the Media