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M A R C H 2 0 2 5 | 61 Southeast Event Centre R EN D ER I N GS CO U RT E S Y V ER N E R EI M ER A RC H I T EC T U R E I N C . SOUTHEAST EVENT CENTRE by NATALIE BRUCKNER T he Southeast Event Centre isn't just a venue – it's a bold statement. A $74-million, 112,000-square-foot powerhouse of sport, entertainment, and cul- ture, it elevates the City of Steinbach onto the provincial stage, redefin- ing what's possible for Manitoba's fastest-growing community. Set to become the heart of recre- ation, entertainment, and dining in southeastern Manitoba, this long- awaited, two-storey, state-of-the-art hybrid arena offers versatility and serves as a vibrant gathering place for Steinbach and beyond. With two indoor ice surfaces, a 4,000-seat con- cert venue, multi-use spaces for trade shows, court sports, and banquets, an indoor play structure, and Forum & Bistro – an elevated dining expe- rience led by chef J.P. Charpentier – this venue is built to accommo- date a wide range of activities. The vision behind the Southeast Event Centre stems from neces- sity, as Jeffrey Bannon, general manager, explains: "The City of Steinbach has been working on this for more than 20 years. As the city grew, we realized we didn't have the amenities to keep up with the needs of the growing population." With the City's approval of fund- ing in 2022, the project finally gained momentum, bringing this long-planned vision to life. Built on the site of the former Centennial Rink, a 56-year-old ice complex, the Centre aligns with the City's Official Community Plan reinforcing downtown Steinbach as a vibrant, dynamic public space. Demolition began in May 2023, uncov- ering a few unexpected challenges. "Before the holidays, we discovered the foundation of a house from the 1800s," says Bannon. "It was clearly built over without any records." Greg Richards, operations man- ager at Graham, recalls the discovery of several old structures including one nearly intact house, as well as deeper frost levels that necessitated additional excavation. "We initially considered a slab-on-grade founda- tion to save costs, but the risk was too high. The full structural slab was the right decision for the site conditions." For the design of the Centre, Verne Reimer Architecture, the City, and Southeast Events Group aimed to capture Steinbach's hardworking character. "We wanted the building to honour the city's entrepreneurial, Mennonite heritage while still creating an exciting experience," says Bannon. Jeff Penner, principal – sport and community architect at VR A, adds, "We put together a unique team. Populous, the top sports architecture firm, helped elevate the fan experience while ensur- ing a strong community focus." The result is a design that harmo- nizes with the surrounding residential area, balancing functionality with a welcoming presence. By incorporating thoughtful materials, soundproofing, and a community-focused layout, the Centre avoids an overbearing 'Event Centre' feel. "It feels like it belongs here – functional but not out of place," says Penner. To honour Steinbach's wood crafts- manship heritage, lightweight metals and curtain wall systems were used for the exterior, along with delam- inated mass timber elements. Soundproofing was a priority, espe- cially for the venue's concert hall. Richards explains that for the exterior a sheathing with a blue skin barrier, 12 inches of mineral wool insulation, and decorative metal siding was chosen. Inside, every detail has been thoughtfully considered. The expan- sive atrium, with stunning windows running its entire length, allows nat- ural light to flood the interior. Bannon describes it as one of his favourite features: "It's going to take people's breath away when they walk in. The atrium could host Christmas markets, sports registrations, or concerts." From here, a grand staircase leads to the event level, where visitors will find the walking track, meeting rooms, and sports court, along with sweeping views of the lower floors. "We designed it so that wherever you are, you can see down to the lower levels. It's a great way for people to mingle without being stuck in their seats," says Bannon. Penner expands on this: "We wanted the spectator experience to be immersive. Instead of entering at the spectator level, visitors ascend a stair- case or take an elevator, opening up to this expansive arena view – it builds LOCATION 321 Elmdale Street, Steinbach, Manitoba OWNER /DEVELOPER Southeast Events Group (SEG) / City of Steinbach ARCHITECT Verne Reimer Architecture Incorporated SPECTATOR BOWL /BR ANDING/ WAYFINDING CONSULTANT Populous GENER AL CONTR ACTOR Graham Construction STRUCTUR AL CONSULTANT Lavergne Draward & Associates MECHANICAL /ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT SMS Engineering CIVIL CONSULTANT KGS Group COMMISSIONING AUTHORIT Y Crosier Kilgour L ANDSCAPE ARCHITECT HFTC Planning & Design INTERIOR DESIGN RIDI TOTAL SIZE 112,000 square feet TOTAL COST $69 million

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