The Stadium Business Design and Development Summit 2024
Thoughts and Learnings from TDS 2024: Insights from Emirates Old Trafford
The Stadium Design & Development Summit 2024 (#TDS24) was a remarkable gathering of experts, offering a deep dive into the innovations and challenges defining modern stadium design. Anchored by discussions on Manchester City and Real Madrid, the summit explored themes from sustainability to multifunctionality.
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From Matchday to Every Day: Year-Round Engagement
Danny Wilson, Managing Director of Operations at Manchester City FC, set the tone by outlining the Etihad Campus’s transformation into a year-round destination. The "30 to 365" strategy aims to attract six million visitors annually through diverse events beyond matchdays. The North Stand expansion project reflects this vision, emphasising the importance of creating engaging, non-matchday content to drive site traffic and ensure continuous community and fan engagement.
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Balancing Heritage and Modernity in Stadium Design
Several case studies explored the delicate balance between preserving a stadium’s history and embracing innovation. Everton’s Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium was celebrated for integrating historic dockside aesthetics with cutting-edge design. Meanwhile, the Bernabéu redevelopment in Madrid was hailed as a “role model” for how iconic venues can evolve while retaining their legacy. These projects highlight the importance of thoughtful design that respects the past while meeting future demands.
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Sustainability at the Core of Development
Sustainability took centre stage across multiple sessions. Natasha Watson of Buro Happold emphasised that carbon-responsible venues can be built using today’s materials, while Mark Fenwick’s presentation on Serbia’s Garden Stadium showcased how integrating landscapes into stadium design can reduce environmental impact. From energy-efficient lighting to modular construction, these insights underline the urgent need for sustainability in all facets of stadium development.
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Leveraging Innovation for Enhanced Fan Experience
The summit delved into how innovation can transform the fan experience. Lighting technology, as discussed by Sander van Stiphout of Johan Cruijff ArenA, is now being used not only for wayfinding but also to entertain and engage fans. Additionally, insights on pricing strategies and intuitive design from performing arts venues emphasised the value of simplicity and accessibility in creating welcoming, enjoyable spaces for all visitors.
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Stadiums as Urban Catalysts
Stadium projects are increasingly viewed as drivers of urban regeneration. Everton’s new venue aims to revitalise Liverpool’s Bramley-Moore Dock area, while the Nagasaki Stadium City project showcases how stadiums can anchor larger urban development initiatives. By integrating community-focused spaces and mixed-use facilities, these projects demonstrate the potential for stadiums to contribute to the economic and social vitality of their surroundings.
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Designing for the Future of Entertainment
As venues expand their functions, the concept of stadiums as multi-purpose entertainment hubs was a recurring theme. Discussions covered integrating modular concepts, such as those used in ABBA Voyage’s London venue, and creating year-round attractions to ensure longevity. Keith Thomas of Petersham Group highlighted the need for ongoing investment and reinvention to keep venues relevant in a competitive entertainment landscape.
TDS 2024 provided a comprehensive overview of the current state and future trajectory of stadium design.
From Manchester City’s fan-first initiatives to groundbreaking projects like Serbia’s Garden Stadium, the summit showcased how sustainability, innovation, and multifunctionality are redefining what stadiums can achieve.
These insights will undoubtedly shape the next generation of venues, setting a high standard for the industry.
