Oakland A's Unveil Innovative Design for Proposed Las Vegas Ballpark
ICARO Media Group
The Oakland Athletics (A's) have revealed the highly anticipated design for their proposed ballpark in Las Vegas. The collaboration between the architecture firms BIG and HNTB aims to create a truly innovative and fan-friendly stadium.
The new ballpark's tiered design will bring fans closer to the action, a significant change from their current home, the Oakland Coliseum, which has a large amount of foul territory. The A's believe that this will enhance the fan experience and create a dynamic atmosphere.
One of the highlights of the design is the roof, which will open to the north, offering fans stunning views of The Las Vegas Strip while allowing natural light to enter. This design element will also limit exposure to the scorching heat from the south, ensuring a comfortable experience for both players and spectators.
Bjarke Ingels, the founder and creative director of BIG, expressed that their design was influenced by the unique culture and climate of Las Vegas. The ballpark will be enclosed by five pennant arches, providing shade from the Nevada sun and allowing soft daylight to wash the field in natural light. A massive window will frame an impressive view of the Strip and the iconic New York New York hotel skyline.
Describing the architectural concept, Ingels compared it to a spherical armadillo, shaped by the local climate while inviting the energy of the Strip. The stadium's design prioritizes passive shading and natural light, aiming to create a new iconic landmark in the city.
The A's have already secured an unanimous vote from Major League Baseball (MLB) owners to relocate to Las Vegas, and the Nevada legislature has approved funding for the project. However, there are still hurdles to overcome before construction can begin. The team is planning to open the new ballpark in 2028.
In the interim, the A's are faced with the challenge of finding a temporary home for the 2025, 2026, and 2027 MLB seasons. While alternative options such as playing in minor league ballparks in Sacramento have been explored, the team recently engaged in discussions with officials from the city of Oakland and Alameda County regarding a possible lease extension at the Coliseum.
The exact timeline for the start of construction on the proposed Las Vegas ballpark remains uncertain. However, the A's are confident that the unveiling of the latest renderings marks a significant step towards their eventual move to Sin City.
As fans anticipate the potential relocation of the A's, the team has demonstrated a commitment to creating a ballpark that blends unique architecture with a forward-thinking approach to fan experience.