University of Southern Maine Collab: Esports Arena
A vision from the University of Southern Maine’s (USM) Esports Team is now a reality. The Collab: Esports Arena, designed by SMRT Architects & Engineers, transforms a 1960s-era building on the Gorham campus into a high-performance hub for connection, competition, and community.
With 75 active members, USM’s Esports Team is the largest collegiate esports club in Maine. The program builds skills in strategic thinking, communication, and coordination that extend well beyond the screen. USM’s Esports Management minor prepares students for professional roles in a field that continues to grow across entertainment, media, and technology.
SMRT’s design approach focused on a space that balances elite performance with comfort and inclusivity. The arena features two distinct zones: a high-performance competitive area configured for tournament-level play, and a casual lounge designed for social gaming and informal connection. That duality is intentional. Not every student comes to compete, but every student should feel they belong.
Adapting a 1960s building for high-density computing required focused engineering: heat load management, acoustic treatments, ergonomic furniture, and accessible controllers ensure the space performs equitably for every user.
