The Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta stands as a premier multi-purpose venue, home to the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United. Spanning nearly two million square feet, this iconic stadium boasts an impressive 80,000-seat capacity, setting a new benchmark in long-span roof design and fan experience. Its innovative features and sustainable design have quickly made it a landmark in Atlanta and a leading sports venue worldwide.
Innovative Retractable Roof: A World-First Design
The challenge was to create a stadium with a retractable roof that was not only functional but also iconic, without obstructing views of a large, central scoreboard. Buro Happold collaborated with HOK Architects to develop a groundbreaking retractable roof concept. The result is a unique oval oculus roof, the first of its kind globally. Composed of eight petal-like segments, the roof appears to open and close with a captivating pinwheel motion, reminiscent of a camera shutter. This innovative design allows the Mercedes Benz Atlanta Stadium to transform from an open-air venue to a climate-controlled arena in under 10 minutes, ensuring an optimal experience for every event.
Sustainable Design and LEED Platinum Certification
Sustainability was a core principle in the design of Mercedes Benz Atlanta Stadium. The stadium achieved the distinction of being the first LEED Platinum certified professional sports venue in North America, a testament to its commitment to environmental responsibility. This achievement was supported by a comprehensive approach, including a life cycle assessment using LEEDv4 methodology to guide material selection, an effective water capture and reuse system, and the integration of over 4,000 PV panels. These solar panels generate enough energy annually to power ten Atlanta Falcons home games, significantly reducing the stadium’s carbon footprint and showcasing its dedication to sustainable operations.
The Unparalleled Halo Board Experience
A key feature of the Mercedes Benz Atlanta Stadium is its 360-degree “Halo Board.” This high-definition LED video display encircles the stadium, providing every spectator with an immersive and theatrical experience, regardless of roof position. The Halo Board ensures fans are constantly engaged and connected to the action, enhancing the atmosphere and solidifying the stadium’s reputation as a world-class entertainment venue.
Iconic Architecture and ETFE Facade
The architectural design of Mercedes Benz Atlanta Stadium is as innovative as its engineering. Eight wing-like facade panels, a tribute to the Atlanta Falcons, define the stadium’s unique sculptural form. The eastern facade features a pioneering application of single-skin ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene), creating a breathtaking “window to the city” with panoramic views of downtown Atlanta. These ETFE panels are not only visually striking but also functional, providing effective insulation and controlling heat gain within the venue. The lightweight and translucent ETFE cushions used in the retractable roof further contribute to the stadium’s airy feel, allowing daylight to illuminate the interior and offering views of the city skyline.
A New Standard for Sports and Entertainment Venues
Mercedes Benz Atlanta Stadium represents a collaborative triumph in design and engineering. It has set a new standard for sports and entertainment venues by seamlessly blending iconic architecture with a fan-centric approach and a strong commitment to sustainability. From its groundbreaking retractable roof and the country’s first single-skin ETFE facade to its immersive Halo Board experience, the stadium stands as an exemplary model of a high-performance, fan-friendly, and visually stunning building in the heart of Atlanta.
