Ingalls Rink, New Haven

Nicknamed “The Whale” for its sweeping, curved form, David S. Ingalls Rink is a standout architectural and athletic landmark in New Haven. Designed by renowned Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, the arena was constructed between 1953 and 1958 for Yale University and is widely recognized both for its cutting-edge design and historical significance.

With seating for 3,500 spectators and a soaring ceiling reaching 23 meters (75 feet), the rink is home to Yale’s men’s and women’s hockey teams. It’s named in honor of David S. Ingalls (Yale Class of 1920) and his son David S. Ingalls, Jr. (Class of 1956)-both Yale hockey captains. The Ingalls family also served as the primary benefactors of the project.

Constructed for $1.5 million-twice the initial estimate-the rink features a bold, 90-meter reinforced concrete catenary arch, an engineering innovation made possible by Fred N. Severud. From this central arch, a cable net supports a timber roof, producing a stable, double-curved surface that defines the rink’s iconic silhouette. Additional external cables were later introduced to counteract asymmetrical wind loads, ensuring long-term structural stability.

Ingalls Rink has earned a spot on the American Institute of Architects’ 2007 list of America’s Favorite Architecture, a testament to its cultural and design significance. The building’s original vision has been preserved and enhanced over time by Kevin Roche and Roche-Dinkeloo, successors to Saarinen’s firm.

Today, Ingalls Rink stands not just as a functional sports arena, but as a monument to architectural innovation, Yale pride, and the enduring spirit of college hockey.