Improving communities through sport

Classical Versus Modern Sports Complex Architecture

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Differences in Sports Complex Design

It used to be that a stadium was built for one purpose only, which was to house a particular sporting event. However, facility planners today understand that sporting venues need to be designed for more than one single purpose.
The architectural trend today is to design a multi-sensory experience for the increasingly sophisticated sports fan. Instead of the utilitarian sidewalks and parking lots of the classic sports complex, concourses, entertainment plazas, and malls are being built around the sporting venue. Sports complexes are being built that contain dining, entertainment, retail and commercial spaces.

Seating In The Modern Sports Complex

Seating design has changed considerably over the years. The old, simple, classical layout designs resulted in some views being obstructed by structures in the building. Chairs were made of wood and metal, with little comfort.
There was no consideration taken into account for people with physical disabilities. Without accessibility design, navigation for people with physical disabilities was difficult, if not impossible.
Today, comfortable seating and premium views are key design elements in sports complex design.
Once basic seating areas have evolved into what are now called seating environments. In addition to basic general seating, you now have options, such as selecting suites and club levels. Some seating areas are being designed so that the flooring can tilt to create better sightlines.
Ticket pricing has become a tiered system, with the highest ticket prices getting the best seats and amenities.

Amenities In The Modern Sports Complex

Hawkers selling their peanuts and popcorn have given away to more high-end food choices, both concession style and in restaurants.

Audio/Visual And Wi-Fi Technology in the Modern Sports Complex

Improved technology has resulted in more sophisticated video and scoreboards, as well as ribbon board systems. Sponsor messaging helps pay for the cost of this equipment. Sound systems are designed with concert-level quality.
There are now multiple TV monitors to watch the sport, dedicated phone lines, and Internet access. Wireless hotspots are now the standard issue.

Comfort, Convenience, and Versatility in the Modern Sports Complex

Top priority in today’s sports complex design is comfort and convenience for the ticket holder. In addition, all of the efficiencies built into the complex allow it to compete with convention centers for “flat space” so that revenue can be generated from events other than sporting activities.

Sports Facilities Advisory And Sports Complex Architecture

Sports Facilities Advisory is committed to getting you the results you want in your Sports Complex planning. Please visit our website or call us today at (727) 424-3845 and let us help you in your facility planning.

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