BIG To Design ‘Spherical Armadillo’ Athletics Ballpark In Las Vegas
Image courtesy of Negativ / BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group
The Oakland Athletics are swinging into Las Vegas with a brand new ballpark, and its design is sure to hit a home run. Shaped by its flashy Las Vegas Strip location, the ballpark encompasses an open-air feel with stunning city skyline views, perfectly capturing the city's vibrant energy. This 33,000-seat covered stadium, designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and infrastructure design company HNTB, is expected to open in Spring 2028.
The unique roof of this “spherical armadillo,” as the famed architectural firm describes it, is adorned with five overlapping shells, resembling giant baseball pennants, paying homage to the sport. These “pennants” not only shield players from the harsh Nevada sun but also welcome natural light through strategically placed windows. Additionally, the domed stadium boasts the world’s largest cable net glass wall for unparalleled views.
Image courtesy of Negativ / BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group
The exterior shimmers in the desert sun, transforming into a dazzling spectacle reflecting the city lights at night.
Image courtesy of Negativ / BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group
The structure prioritizes fan experience. An elevated outdoor plaza leads to bridges over the boulevards, directing spectators to the main concourse. Here, a large glass atrium blends the city’s energy with the arena’s interior. This entrance sequence offers immediate panoramic views of the field and seating, ensuring easy navigation.
Secondary entrances, marked by playful “bouncing” arches, enhance accessibility and create a connection to the outdoors. Inside, bright and open atriums serve not only as entry points but also as versatile exhibition spaces showcasing local and international artists.
Image courtesy of Negativ / BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group
Inspired by prominent ballparks like Fenway Park and Wrigley Field, the tiered layout brings visitors closer to the action, with clear sightlines from every seat. The ballpark is also set to feature the largest jumbotron in Major League Baseball, giving everyone a close-up view of the game. Meanwhile, the air-conditioning system delivers cool air directly to seats to maximize efficiency and energy conservation.
Aspiring to be more than just a baseball stadium, the Athletics Ballpark is poised to be a premier entertainment destination, capable of hosting concerts, conferences, and other events. Future plans include an on-site hotel and casino too.
“Las Vegas is where the imagination runs free, characterized by bespoke, one-of-a-kind experiences,” shares Lanson Nichols, principal-in-charge of HNTB. “The A’s new ballpark will be filled with unique settings for the social interplay between, sport, spectacle, and entertainment.”
[via BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group, images courtesy of Negativ / BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group]
