When Anschutz Entertainment Group set out to build a new sports and entertainment arena in downtown LA, the challenge was clear: deliver a world‑class venue capable of hosting multiple professional sports teams and major entertainment events, all on an exceptionally aggressive schedule. PCL was selected to lead construction of what would become the iconic STAPLES Center, bringing deep experience in complex sports facilities and a collaborative, solutions‑driven approach.

Serving as general contractor, PCL successfully delivered the 960,000‑square‑foot arena in just 18 months, significantly reducing the originally planned 24‑month schedule. Through early coordination, extensive constructability reviews and innovative structural solutions, PCL helped transform a fast‑tracked vision into a landmark venue that would redefine the fan experience and anchor the revitalization of downtown LA.

The STAPLES Center project presented numerous challenges, including evolving design details, complex geometry and overlapping schedules for multiple tenant requirements. PCL addressed these challenges by implementing a composite precast and cast‑in‑place structural system, enabling large‑scale concrete operations to occur both on‑site and off‑site simultaneously, an approach that was instrumental in maintaining schedule certainty.

PCL’s construction leadership ensured seamless coordination across trades while maintaining quality, safety and performance expectations. Upon completion, the arena became the first venue in history to host three professional sports seasons concurrently, setting a new standard for multi‑tenant arena functionality. Beyond sports, STAPLES Center quickly established itself as a premier destination for concerts and live events, contributing to the growth of the surrounding L.A. LIVE entertainment district and delivering lasting economic and cultural benefits to the community.

• Construction Timeline: Completed in 18 months (originally planned for 24 months)

• Size: Approximately 960,000 square feet

• Seating Capacity: 
  • Basketball: Around 19,000
  • Hockey: Around 18,00
• Key Features:

  • 160 private suites and eight party suites

  • Team offices and dedicated locker rooms for multiple professional teams

  • Extensive broadcast production facilities

  • Restaurants, private club spaces and large‑capacity catering kitchens

• Structural Innovation: Composite precast/cast‑in‑place structural system used to accelerate schedule and manage complex geometry

STAPLES Center has since been renamed Crypto.com Arena. PCL has led multiple renovation projects at Crypto.com Arena, demonstrating a long‑term relationship with the client and a continued commitment to enhancing this iconic venue over its lifecycle.