Stadiums evolve to enhance community experience and wellbeing, says Patrick Ness on design’s future and AI’s role
Stadium architecture is undergoing a major transformation, with designers increasingly focused on creating connected urban precincts that deliver lasting benefits for cities beyond major sporting events.
For architects, the challenge is no longer simply designing venues that can host major events. It is about creating spaces that remain valuable to communities, adapt to changing urban needs and deliver a lasting return on investment.
Patrick Ness, Chair of the Executive and Partner at COX Architecture, explored this shift on The Connector, hosted by Belinda Coates, examining how stadiums and public infrastructure are being reimagined for the future.
Ness said major sporting venues must balance the demands of competition with broader considerations, including crowd movement, rival fanbases, structural requirements, environmental conditions and spectator sightlines.
However, the challenge extends well beyond delivering a successful event.
Architects are increasingly being asked to consider how stadiums can serve their host cities for 30 to 50 years, creating a legacy that continues long after the crowds have left.
This is driving a shift away from isolated sporting facilities towards integrated precincts that incorporate housing, retail, public spaces and cultural attractions.
The objective is to make stadiums active parts of the urban environment, rather than destinations used only on match days.
Ness said the focus is also moving towards creating distinctive, location-specific experiences that reflect the character, climate and culture of each city, rather than simply maximising seating capacity.
The same people-focused approach is influencing healthcare architecture.
Ness highlighted growing similarities between sports and healthcare projects, with both disciplines increasingly focused on human performance, inclusion and wellbeing.
Patrick Ness with Belinda Coates at the Ticker Studio
Modern hospital design is moving beyond clinical functionality, with greater attention given to environments that reduce stress, incorporate sensory considerations and support patient recovery.
Technology is also changing how architects approach design and project delivery, with artificial intelligence offering new tools to improve efficiency and explore design possibilities.
However, Ness believes human qualities remain central to the profession.
Curiosity, imagination, ethical judgement and collaboration with the people who use these spaces will continue to shape successful outcomes.
Whether designing a major sporting venue or a hospital, understanding the needs of athletes, spectators, patients and medical professionals remains essential.
As cities rethink their major infrastructure investments, the challenge for architects will be balancing technological advances with human experience to create buildings that remain relevant for generations.
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