Sports buildings are the “cathedrals” of our age, encapsulating the legacy and aspirations of a city, university, or community. As civic gathering places—often partially financed with public funds—they must also create enduring economic value and support their communities.

Sports buildings should elevate not only the fan experience, but that of the entire city. Through mixed-use strategies that keep venues active throughout the year, sports buildings can contribute to vibrant, economically sustainable neighborhoods. Thoughtful approaches to building renewal can amplify traditions and history, while innovative programming and design can create a new type of forward-looking civic and cultural anchor.

Design Perspectives for Sports

As fan expectations, technologies and markets evolve, sports buildings need to adapt to stay competitive. The renovation of Progressive Field, home to the Cleveland Guardians, features an open, flexible design that connects fans to each other beyond the traditional fan experience through unique social venues and experiences.

Even the most iconic sports buildings age and eventually require renewal. To amplify the historic legacy of these structures, it is critical to understand and build on the traditions, experiences and design features that make them resonate. The redesign of Rupp Arena, one of the United States’ most prominent collegiate basketball arenas, preserves the authenticity of the original building while creating a more engaging experience for fans.

Many sports buildings sit empty beyond game day. Yet they can be designed for activity all year, accommodating more diverse programming and amenities like green space, retail, and cultural and residential space that enable them to serve as true community assets. The flexible design and continued use of Crypto.com Arena, formerly Staples Center—home to four professional sports franchises as well as concerts and events—energizes the South Park District of Los Angeles.

Work and Ideas

All Work and Ideas

Progressive Field Master Plan

UCLA, Pauley Pavilion Renovation and Expansion

Article

Buildings in Conversation with the City

Jamsil Olympic Stadium Renovation

Schottenstein Center North Expansion and Concourse Renovation

Crypto.com Arena

Sports Leaders

Robert Mankin, AIA, LEED AP

Managing Partner | Board Member| Firmwide Corporate Practice Leader

Jonathan Ward, FAIA, LEED AP

Design Partner | Board Member | Firmwide Design Leader

Andrzej Czech, LEED AP

Principal | Firmwide Sports Practice Leader

Featured Project

Hangzhou Sports Center

This Olympic-sized stadium’s innovative design—inspired by the region’s lotus flower—reduces embodied carbon by using 2/3 less steel than a stadium of comparable size and capacity.

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