Highmark Center for Health, Wellness & Athletics at Carnegie Melon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Structural Engineering
Education
LEED Gold
160,000
Square Feet$71
Million
As universities expand their focus on holistic student support, Carnegie Mellon University’s Highmark Center for Health, Wellness and Athletics stands as a new model—bringing together health services, counseling, wellness programs, and varsity athletics in a single, integrated facility.
The 160,000-sf addition to the historic Skibo Gymnasium includes a performance gym, multipurpose courts, a turf fieldhouse, athletic training spaces, locker rooms, and staff offices. KPFF’s structural design supports the program’s diverse needs with long-span framing, vibration-sensitive clinical and performance areas, and seamless connections to the 1923 Henry Hornbostel-designed gymnasium.
The structure plays a key role in achieving the project’s wellness and sustainability goals, enabling daylighting, natural ventilation, and flexible programming. Now complete, the Highmark Center serves as both a campus gateway and a vibrant hub for student life.