The project: The University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill undertook a phased redevelopment of the Cone‑Kenfield Tennis Facility in Chapel Hill, NC. The scope included: replacing all existing outdoor courts to create 12 contiguous on-grade competition courts; renovating the existing indoor team building; constructing a new 22,000-sf team building; and adding a 2,500-sf bathroom building. Phase I encompassed outdoor court replacement, new bleachers with shade canopies, restroom facility, and associated site work; Phase II addressed renovation of the indoor facility and construction of the team building. IMEG was responsible for designing the new structures, monumental stair, site walls, and post-tensioned concrete court slabs.

The goal: UNC and its athletic facilities team aimed to create a high-performance tennis center that appeals to recruits and their families, conveys a “champions play here” identity, and supports NCAA tournament hosting.

Project amenities: Facility features include extensive locker rooms, coaches’ offices, a Hall of Fame area, running/turf training zones, a weight room, training spaces, hospitality lounges overlooking courts for donors and recruits, and expanded competition and practice offerings.

The design: The renovation maintains six indoor courts, six competition courts, and six practice courts, housed in the existing indoor structure. New design elements include:

• 12 outdoor competition courts in a single contiguous layout
• A 22,000-sf team building and 2,500-sf bathroom structure
• Renovation of the existing indoor facility including entry and mezzanine spaces
• Shade canopies over new bleachers and updated amenities

The outcome: Once complete, the expanded facility will better support both varsity tennis programs and the university’s athletic reputation, with modern infrastructure, expanded training and spectator amenities, and the capability to host NCAA-level tournaments. The cohesive design will elevate UNC’s positioning among top-tier collegiate tennis programs.