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Furman University: Timmons Arena

Reimagining Timmons Arena: Furman’s Home for Paladin Spirit

The Challenge: For years, Furman University’s Timmons Arena stood as a functional but outdated facility. It failed to reflect the energy of the Paladin spirit or the pride of its Greenville community. Many of the university’s athletic and community events were held off campus, giving the opportunity to transform Timmons Arena into something greater than a game-day venue. The challenge was dual purpose: elevate the Furman athletics brand for recruitment and create a multipurpose environment that draws the Greenville community back to campus. 

 

Year

2025
 

Location

Greenville, SC
 

Partners

Betsch Associates Architects and Construction Management Firm, Harper Construction
 

Crafting the Solution: DI didn’t just design the look of Timmons Arena—they helped define its spirit. During the early pitch, the team introduced the idea of Paladin Spirit—a storytelling theme that captured everything Furman stands for: tradition, pride and the excitement of athletics. What started as a creative concept quickly became a rallying cry for the university, embraced by leadership, athletes and fans alike.

"The process with DI was incredibly collaborative. They knew what was important to us and it felt like they heard things we didn't even say."

-- Erin Mayes, Deputy Athletics Director

 

That spirit guided every design move, beginning outside the arena with glowing entry pylons that proudly proclaim “Greenville’s Team.” They build energy before you even step through the doors, setting the tone for an experience that celebrates the pride and passion behind every Paladin moment.

Inside the entry of Timmons Arena, the Paladin logo makes an unforgettable impression with his illuminated eyes. Going further inside the lobby, you’ll find a massive 34-foot-wide LED Hall of Honor panel and interactive kiosks bringing decades of Furman’s athletics to life, highlighting unforgettable plays and celebrating athletes. Nearby, a detailed 5-axis-routed wood map of South Carolina—finished in Furman’s signature purple—serves as a striking, photo-worthy backdrop.

Across the concourse and premium suites, warm wood finishes, metallic details and layered graphics blend together to create a space that feels handcrafted and undeniably Furman. What started as a renovation quickly evolved into a reimagined experience that reunites students, fans and the Greenville community under Paladin pride.

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Justin Wood

Justin Wood

Principal / Sports + Higher Education Practice Director

With over 20 years of experience communicating and developing meaningful projects with clients, Justin Wood brings an unparalleled range of expertise to Dimensional Innovations. As the Sports and Higher Education Practice Director,... more about Justin Wood Justin Wood Justin Wood Principal / Sports + Higher Education Practice Director

With over 20 years of experience communicating and developing meaningful projects with clients, Justin Wood brings an unparalleled range of expertise to Dimensional Innovations.

As the Sports and Higher Education Practice Director, Justin feeds his passion for developing matchless, engaging experiences for our clients by focusing on dynamic environments. He has led the charge of building these practice portfolios through developing sponsorship activations, halls of fame and immersive branding experiences.

His leadership in projects help clients and brands improve the pro and collegiate experience by connecting their story to interactive and physical environments. Justin’s resume also boasts seven years of running his own design-build consulting company.

Justin’s portfolio of projects has appeared in multiple sports market publications, and he has presented at ALSD, SEGD’s Dynamic Environments series and at multiple Sports Business Journal workshops. Justin was named as an SBJ Power Player in 2020.

Eric Buckels

Eric Buckels

Account Director / Sports + Higher Education

As an Associate Account Director, Eric’s primary focus lies in actively listening to and comprehending his clients’ requirements, enabling him to guide proficient teams that excel in problem-solving and crafting exceptional... more about Eric Buckels Eric Buckels Eric Buckels Account Director / Sports + Higher Education

As an Associate Account Director, Eric’s primary focus lies in actively listening to and comprehending his clients’ requirements, enabling him to guide proficient teams that excel in problem-solving and crafting exceptional experiences within DI's sports and higher education practices. Eric possesses a distinctive talent for anticipating issues and swiftly devising solutions while cultivating trust among his clients and project collaborators.

With a wealth of experience spanning diverse project types encompassing sports heritage, experiential branding, immersive technology, sponsorship activation, recruitment and retention strategies, Eric brings a comprehensive approach to guiding clients seamlessly through every phase of their projects. Each successful project has enriched his ability to create impactful and innovative solutions tailored to the ever-evolving landscape of sports and higher education experiences.

 
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