Allianz Field

The design team envisioned a 360° canopy as a series of undulating curves: a unique concept that would require advanced integration and analysis between the designer and structural and enclosure engineering teams.

The design concept called for a facade that must be made of a material that was strong, flexible, lightweight, weathertight, transparent, and color-changing—connecting fans outside the stadium to the energy of the game inside. No such material existed on the market.

Lastly, the finished stadium must compete against the best, international sports venues in the world, serving as an iconic, marketable piece of art and architecture for the team and state, and a destination to any soccer fan.

We developed a nimble, digital workflow and documentation of the 360° roof canopy that could easily respond to changes from any contributor. This allowed the structural and architectural teams to envision and select the best structural system that expressed the design intent—in real time and in 3D.

We worked with various material suppliers to develop an entirely new product that could provide all the competing characteristics simultaneously. During the course of our work, we created a completely new Teflon^®-coated woven fiber membrane.

Working together with our team of experts from across the world, we collaborated internally and externally to develop an innovative solution with a shared goal of bringing the architectural vision to life.

Allianz Field is the first, large-scale installation of an innovative, clear laminated and colored PTFE Teflon^® coated woven fiberglass membrane in North America. Additional projects of this nature have been slated for future work as a result.

Our digital workflow enabled steel fabricators to accurately predict the amount of steel required for the job in advance, facilitating production, saving time and money, and reducing waste.

Fans enjoy one of the most intimate settings in professional sports, with the farthest seat just 125ft from the sideline. A full 360° canopy simultaneously reflects crowd noise back onto the pitch and protects 85% of the crowd from inclement weather.

Since its opening, fans, media, and the team have raved about the stadium, boasting a sold-out inagural season and hosting the United States Women’s and Men’s National Soccer Teams.