Q2 Stadium, a new 20,000-seat stadium for Austin FC, has completed construction. The Gensler-designed project capitalizes on its natural landscape, the city’s cultural heritage, and its tech-forward growth.
The project features one of the largest roofs on a soccer-specific stadium, which will cover every seat, protecting fans from rain and sun. The canopy enclosure features a combination of customized curved metal panel systems on the bullnose, soffit, and edges; and a single-ply roofing on the top side of the canopy. The stadium is also oriented on its site to pull in breezes aided by open corners, an open-air concourse, and breathable mesh fabric seats.
Open concourses and standing areas allow fans to move around and socialize or visit local food vendors. VIP guests can access hospitality-inspired air-conditioned clubs and suites. Multiple outdoor spaces surround Q2 Stadium, including an outdoor amphitheater and a stage for live music. Outdoor spaces are open to the public on non-game days and can host farmer’s markets and concerts.
Q2 Stadium is the first MLS stadium to use Whole Building Life Cycle Analysis (WBLCA) to environmentally optimize the structure and enclosure and reduce embodied carbon. The WBLCA illustrated the environment savings achieved through the use of a cable system to support portions of the roof, as well as optimizations to the concrete mix designs.
In addition to Gensler’s design, the project was delivered with Walter P Moore’s multi-discipline service approach, which includes structural engineering, enclosure engineering, water proofing consulting, construction engineering, and whole building life cycle assessment.
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