Chase Center

At the heart of this revitalization were plans for an ambitious, multi-purpose venue where locals and visitors alike could gather, shop, dine, and be entertained. A place that would also foster economic growth and support Mission Bay’s burgeoning tech-centric businesses. 

The result was the Chase Center—an 18,000-seat arena ensconced by the Thrive City district which features two, 11-story office buildings equipped for high-tech tenants, 100,000 SF of retail space, and a 35,000 SF central pedestrian plaza. Additionally, the complex includes more than 20 unique retail locations, a 925-car underground parking structure, and a glass-enclosed gatehouse. Located just south of the Bay Bridge, Chase Center was specially designed as the new home of the NBA’s Golden State Warriors and a premier destination for more than 200 annual events including concerts, conventions, comedy shows, and cultural gatherings. 

Delivering Accuracy Amidst a Fast-Track Schedule 

For event-driven facilities, we understand that deadlines cannot be moved. With Chase Center slated to host 13 events within its first 19 days of opening, completing design and construction documentation accurately and on schedule was of vital importance.  

With this in mind, we leaned on our rigorous quality assurance/control procedures. We incorporated layers of consistent, senior-level reviews by discipline-specific project engineers/designers for targeted expertise, cross-disciplined personnel for fresh perspective, and project managers for granular focus. This ongoing QA/QC became particularly important as construction on the Chase Center began before final construction documents were issued, making the joint-venture contractor especially dependent on the accuracy of documentation. 

Assuring Project Success as an Owner 

The Golden State Warriors are one of few NBA teams to own their arena, privately funding the project. As a fully-vested, 100% colleague-owned company, our team members approached the Warriors’ project in the same way—as owners. This sense of ownership shows up in a personal commitment to be accountable for our clients’ resources, project success, and project experience. 

Throughout the project, we accepted our responsibility for the project design schedule and for the construction budget related to the MEP/FP systems. Put simply, we owned the process to deliver our scope of service on time and within budget. 

Working with more than 50 consultants as part of the design-assist delivery method, we partnered closely with two small businesses in particular that are local to San Francisco. This allowed our team to navigate local codes and maintain an on-site presence during construction as part of a commitment to ensure compliance and reduce delays. The design-assist delivery method also allowed us to work closely with the construction manager, general contractor, and MEP subcontractors to deliver multiple design/permit packages and construction administration services. 

Going the Gold—LEED Gold 

Our sustainability team played a crucial role in helping the Chase Center attain LEED Gold Certification for Building Design and Construction: New Construction. This achievement places the arena among a select few NBA venues that meet such a high standard of sustainability. The certification process involved detailed energy modeling and compliance checks to ensure the arena adhered to strict environmental criteria. Both the arena and its office towers were designed with a focus on energy efficiency, incorporating advanced strategies such as daylighting and indirect/direct evaporative cooling technology to enhance performance. 

The office towers within Thrive City have also earned both LEED and WELL certifications, focusing on enhancing human health and well-being through the built environment.  

A Valuable Member of the Community 

Since its opening, the Chase Center has made a sizable impact on the local economy, generating more than $4.2 billion. Additionally, local businesses within and surrounding Thrive City have seen a 15-40% increase in sales on event days with the district producing more than $14 million annually in new tax revenues which are used to support community services and capital improvements. Having hosted more than 400 diverse events since opening its doors, Chase Center has become a fixture of the growing Mission Bay neighborhood and larger San Francisco community.