HOK sport architecture design the new stadium in Milton Keynes
The new home of Milton Keynes Dons designed by HOK sport architecture, was officially opened on Wednesday 18th July with a pre-season friendly against a Chelsea XI at the Denbigh North site.
The new Stadium is the first modern UK stadium to feature a top loaded 360 degree open concourse. Chosen to create a more congenial atmosphere, the crowd will be able to relax and enjoy the event during concerts and entertainment shows. In responding to such issues as standing viewing and alcohol consumption, HOK have developed a strategy through discussions with the FLA.
These include restricting views of the pitch from the concourse, preventing spectators from viewing the game from behind the standing terrace rail, and positioning alcohol consumption areas within separate enclosures. This will address two issues; prevents drinking whilst having a view to the pitch, and prevent young spectators from walking through crowded bar areas on the way to WC’s or concession areas. The stadium incorporates two other major elements. Firstly an indoor multi-purpose arena with a capacity of 6,000 seats will be added to one end of the stadium. Secondly, a 128-bed hotel will be linked to the front west stand of the stadium, having appropriate support areas including an indoor swimming pool available to both hotel guests and players. Several rooms on the pitchside will double up as executive suites during a major event. The site contours were used to allow the stadium to be semi submerged this allowed ease of construction with the lower bowl being cast directly against the excavated ground making significant structural/financial savings. The sunken lower bowl affords spectators direct access to the main concourse without the need for climbing stairs.
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