The Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta stands as a premier multi-purpose venue, home to both the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League and Atlanta United of Major League Soccer. Spanning nearly two million square feet, this iconic structure boasts an impressive 80,000-seat capacity, setting a new benchmark in stadium design, particularly with its groundbreaking long-span roof structure.
Innovative Retractable Roof: A Marvel of Engineering
A key highlight of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium is its unique retractable roof, an oval oculus design that is the first of its kind globally. Composed of eight intricate “petals,” the roof ingeniously opens and closes, reminiscent of a camera shutter in operation. This innovative design not only offers spectators an open-air experience but also maintains unobstructed views of the distinctive 360-degree “halo” scoreboard, a feature that sets this stadium apart. The roof can transition from closed to open in under 10 minutes, transforming the atmosphere of the venue swiftly and dramatically.
Sustainability at its Core: Achieving LEED Platinum
Sustainability was a driving principle in the stadium’s design and construction. Mercedes-Benz Stadium proudly holds the distinction of being the first LEED Platinum certified professional sports venue in North America. This achievement reflects a deep commitment to environmental responsibility, demonstrated through initiatives like a comprehensive water capture and reuse system and the integration of over 4,000 photovoltaic panels. These solar panels generate enough energy annually to power ten Atlanta Falcons home games, significantly reducing the stadium’s carbon footprint. The selection of materials throughout the project was also guided by a life cycle assessment using LEEDv4 methodology, further emphasizing sustainable practices.
An Unparalleled Fan Experience
The challenge was to create a world-class, high-performance stadium with an iconic design, addressing the complexities of a retractable roof and integrating a large scoreboard without compromising the fan experience. Buro Happold collaborated closely with HOK Architects to realize this vision. Roger Nickells, Partner at Buro Happold, noted the development of a retractable roof concept that was not only unique but also ensured every spectator had views of the 360-degree halo scoreboard. This Halo Board, a high-definition LED video display, provides a rich, immersive, and theatrical experience for fans, whether the roof is open or closed, enhancing every event held within the stadium.
The stadium’s facade is equally impressive, featuring eight wing-like panels as an architectural homage to the Atlanta Falcons, contributing to the stadium’s distinctive and sculptural form. The eastern facade utilizes a pioneering single-skin ETFE application, creating a “window to the city” with expansive views of downtown Atlanta. These ETFE panels are not only visually striking but also provide effective insulation, managing heat gain within the venue. The lightweight and translucent ETFE cushions used in the roof structure minimize weight on the long-span cantilevered petals and allow natural daylight to illuminate the stadium field, further contributing to the venue’s energy efficiency and spectator comfort.
Setting a New Standard for Sports and Entertainment Venues
Mercedes-Benz Stadium stands as a testament to collaborative design and engineering excellence. It delivers a holistic experience that prioritizes both an unforgettable fan atmosphere and a visually stunning venue for top-tier sports and entertainment events. With its innovative long-span steel roof, the first single-skin ETFE facade in the country, and commitment to sustainability, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta is a groundbreaking example of how elegant design can create an iconic, fan-friendly, and high-performance building in the sports and entertainment sector.
