Designed by Populous, the renovation will open up the arena to its surroundings, specifically the 72-acre Seattle Centre, site of the 1962 World’s Fair and home to the currently under-renovation Seattle Space Needle. As part of the project, the sports venue will be rebranded as “The Arena at Seattle Centre.”

The design scheme focuses on “[blurring] the lines between inside and outside experiences” through an extensive use of glass and improved site circulation. A new atrium will welcome in visitors and bring light into the interior, while a pedestrian plaza at the south end of the site will create an outdoor space for gathering and events.

Interior spaces will be completely redesigned, adding new clubs and social spaces to the bowl. Paying homage to the structure’s history, the finished product will remain loyal to the original design intent envisioned by architect Paul Thiry.

“Open, inviting and simply unforgettable while respecting the landmark history; these are the principles that continue to drive our design of the renovations to the Arena at Seattle Center,” said Kurt Amundsen, Principal at Populous. “We are proud to be working with Oak View Group to re-define the arena as a world-class entertainment venue for the Northwest.”

The renovation of the Arena at Seattle Centre is expected to be completed by 2020.