When elite performance is the expectation, every detail matters—from player recovery to architectural precision to the materials that shape the environment. For the Baltimore Ravens, the renovation of their 20,000-square-foot Under Armour Performance Center, known as The Castle, became an opportunity to rethink what a modern training facility should deliver.
Led by ZGF Architects, the July 2025 renovation transformed the space into a world-class performance and wellness environment—one grounded in nature, durability, and calm. And at the core of this transformation, Thermory Magnolia was chosen for its warmth, clarity, and ability to perform in high-humidity, high-demand environments.
But the story of how our Magnolia became the material of choice is just as compelling.
How Thermory Magnolia Entered the Design
For Cristian de Rosa, Thermory Northeast Territory Manager, the project started quite literally the moment he touched down in Washington, D.C. on a business trip.
“I had just landed in DC when I got the notification that ZGF had requested samples for an interior health and wellness area. Zero exaggeration here—I was responding to their message while riding the shuttle to my rental car pickup!”
Cristian soon connected with designer Haley from ZGF to explore options.
“Haley showed me her design and we went over some of the samples I had in my bag. The goal was to find something that created warmth and a sense of recovery and rejuvenation. That was where Haley initially uncovered Thermory as a real-wood option to consider.”
From the beginning, Magnolia stood out.
“I’m a huge fan of our Magnolia, and we agreed that the clear grain and warm tone would be perfect for the UA Performance Complex.”
Still, the team wanted to be thorough. They explored several alternatives—including a custom Vivid-coated ash that matched Magnolia’s lighter tone—but nothing lived up to the real thing.
“That was probably the closest contender, but Magnolia was still the clear winner.”
Perfect in tone, performance, and presence—the Thermo-Magnolia specification became the backbone of the project’s biophilic, calming aesthetic.
Designing a Space for Recovery + Performance
ZGF’s concept was rooted in the structure of a raven’s nest: organic, protective, and powerful. Natural materials, controlled light, and restorative spaces weave together to support the mind, body, and spirit of elite athletes.
The new hydrotherapy suite serves as the renovation’s centerpiece. A dramatic skylight clad in Magnolia invites daylight into the space, creating a calming, nature-forward atmosphere ideal for recovery.
Inside the suite:
- A 50-foot, two-lane lap pool
- A therapy pool
- Hot & cold plunge pools accommodating up to 20 players each
- Custom saunas
Throughout these spaces, Magnolia provides a warm, refined finish capable of handling extreme moisture and heat with minimal maintenance. The wood’s clear grain and soft tone make the environment feel restorative—an essential contrast to the intensity of professional training.
Biophilic design extends into the training rooms and recovery areas as well. A 135-foot operable glass wall opens directly to the practice field, filling the space with natural light and fresh air. Vertical slatted Magnolia dividers offer privacy while reinforcing visual rhythm and a sense of calm.
Adaptable Materials for an Ambitious Timeline
Beyond aesthetics, material versatility played a key role in meeting the Ravens’ aggressive five-and-a-half-month construction schedule. Custom profiles, tongue-and-groove boards, and Thermory sauna bench boards were milled off-site for fast, precise installation—helping accelerate timelines, reduce waste, and ensure the facility opened ahead of the 2025 season.
For Cristian, being part of this project was especially meaningful.
“This project was super special for me. I’m a huge football fan and often catch flack for openly supporting several teams at once. The Ravens are an incredible team, and it was awesome to see our materials come to life to support the likes of Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry, and the rest of their powerhouse team.”
He shared a childhood connection:
“When I was 10, I found myself rooting for the Ravens during their first Super Bowl victory. I knew nothing about football, but I had family in Maryland and wanted to give my friend—a lifelong Giants fan—someone to contend with during the game. My family mailed me a copy of The Baltimore Timesthe next day with Ray Lewis on the cover. I was a fan for at least one night in 2001!”
And working with ZGF?
“Haley and the ZGF team were an absolute pleasure. Their design is so intentional, clean, and visually stunning—it was an honor to be part of their project. I’d gladly work with them again. If it’s another NFL, NBA, or NHL team, that would be icing on the cake.”
Redefining the Modern Training Facility
With its blend of advanced recovery features, biophilic design, and sustainable material selection, the Under Armour Performance Center sets a new benchmark for professional sports facilities.
Thermory Magnolia’s durability, versatility, and natural warmth reinforced the project’s core vision: creating an environment that enhances recovery, strengthens mental resilience, and supports world-class performance.
From the hydrotherapy suite to the training floor, The Castle demonstrates how thoughtful design and durable materials can elevate performance—on and off the field.
Explore your own competitive advantage with Thermory.
Photo Credits: Ema Peter Photography
