The Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, stands as a groundbreaking multi-purpose venue, home to both the Atlanta Falcons NFL team and Atlanta United MLS team. Spanning nearly two million square feet, this iconic structure accommodates approximately 80,000 spectators, setting a new benchmark in stadium design, particularly with its innovative long-span roof. This premier venue has not only become a landmark in Atlanta but also a global exemplar of architectural and engineering excellence in stadium construction.
Innovative Retractable Roof Design: An Oculus in Motion
At the heart of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s architectural brilliance is its unique retractable roof. This oval oculus roof is a world-first, composed of eight meticulously engineered “petals” that create a mesmerizing opening and closing sequence, much like the aperture of a camera shutter. This innovative design moves away from traditional bi-panel retractable roofs, offering a fresh approach to stadium roof mechanics. The challenge was to create not just a functional roof, but an iconic element that would enhance the spectator experience and integrate seamlessly with a massive 360-degree scoreboard. Buro Happold collaborated closely with HOK Architects to realize this vision, developing a roof concept that is both visually stunning and structurally ingenious.
The Halo Board: A 360-Degree Spectacle
A key feature integrated with the roof design is the impressive “Halo Board.” This 360-degree, high-definition LED video display encircles the stadium, ensuring every fan enjoys a rich, immersive, and theatrical experience, regardless of whether the roof is open or closed. The Halo Board presents a continuous stream of visuals, enhancing game-day atmosphere and providing unparalleled viewing for replays, scores, and engaging content. This integration of technology and architecture underscores the stadium’s commitment to fan engagement and a cutting-edge entertainment experience.
Sustainable Design and LEED Platinum Certification
Sustainability was a core principle in the development of Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The commitment to environmental responsibility culminated in the stadium achieving LEED Platinum certification, the first professional sports venue in North America to reach this prestigious level. This achievement reflects a comprehensive approach to sustainable design, including a sophisticated water capture and reuse system and the installation of over 4,000 photovoltaic (PV) panels. These solar panels generate enough energy annually to power ten Atlanta Falcons home games, significantly reducing the stadium’s carbon footprint. The design team also meticulously evaluated the carbon footprint using LEEDv4 methodology for Life Cycle Assessment, guiding material choices throughout the project to minimize environmental impact.
ETFE Facade: A Window to Atlanta
The stadium’s facade is another testament to innovative material use. The eastern facade features a pioneering application of single-skin Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) cushions, creating a breathtaking “window to the city” with panoramic views of downtown Atlanta. This single-skin ETFE facade is the first of its kind in the United States, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits. The translucent ETFE membrane allows natural daylight to flood the interior spaces while providing effective insulation, mitigating unwanted heat gain within the venue and contributing to the stadium’s energy efficiency. The lightweight steel framing of the facades further enhances the stadium’s sculptural form, contributing to its iconic exterior.
A Premier Venue for Sports and Entertainment
Mercedes-Benz Stadium stands as a testament to collaborative design and engineering innovation. Its holistic design prioritizes both an exceptional fan experience and a visually striking venue for premier sports and entertainment events. With its groundbreaking long-span steel roof, the first single-skin ETFE facade in the country, and commitment to sustainability, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Georgia sets a new standard for iconic, fan-friendly, and high-performance buildings in the sports and entertainment sector. This stadium is not just a home for Atlanta’s sports teams; it’s a landmark that embodies architectural innovation and sustainable design on a global scale.
