on paper, stadia are built using three-dimensional
models that translate to invisible points in space that
are mapped by drones. Products are located and tagged
in a BIM model before they even show up to the site.
In some ways, buildings are almost like 3D-printed
structures now - assembled from pieces tracked and
coordinated within computer programs. So that’s
a major jump in technology.
Again, it’s an incredible time in history to be
working as an architect.
Does all this technology make your
life easier or does it take away from
those traditional skills of the craft?
Most of the time, the only way to get an idea out of
your head and into the computer is to go through your
hand onto paper first. We still sit down and sketch, and
talk, so there is still very much an artistic element to it.
But, I have to admit our ideas do go into a computer
much more quickly now than they did 30 years ago.
If you look back at buildings constructed 30 years
ago, compared to what we get now, the power
of the tools that are available to us have absolutely
pushed the entire building type and industry forward.
As architects, we are always challenging each other
to do a better job – to be more creative, more inspired.
But, as far as making our lives easier? I’d say, ‘no’. We
just do a lot more work now!
What have been the biggest stadium
design trends in recent years?
Among other things, the first thing that comes to mind
is that we’re seeing more opportunities for a wider
variety of premium amenities. The guest experience
is a hot topic, but what does that mean for the owner
and how does architecture need respond to that?
From VIP, to general admission guests, there are
upgraded clubs and bars, better food, wider concourses
and more toilets. Honestly, what is now considered a
GA seat would have been a nice club seat 20 years ago.
Everything is moving up, which is great, but it
makes the building more expensive and more
complicated to design. But that’s the new standard.
There is no going backwards.
That’s just one aspect, though. Technology and
building materials are changing. For instance, we have
smarter glass now, smarter metal, interesting
membranes and fabrics to design with. All of which we
didn’t have even five to 10 years ago. As the products
change, the architecture changes, so we can do more
with less building material. The structures are
becoming lighter and look more graceful, visually.
How is the focus on sustainability
affecting how you work?
It is a hot topic and the responsibility of the entire
design concession to manage and do their part to create
INTERVIEW
Manica worked on the Chase
Center, the new home of the
NBA’s Golden State Warriors
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