Industry News

Atlanta Hawks grant fans insight into new-look arena

NBA basketball team the Atlanta Hawks has launched an interactive experience designed to showcase the redeveloped Philips Arena to potential suite and seat buyers.

The revamped arena is set to open its doors in October and the Hawks have joined forces with Seattle-based design firm Hornall Anderson in putting together ‘The Preview.’

The Preview experience offers a multi-media journey into what a night out in Atlanta will look and feel like once the new-look arena is completed.

“Our objective was to create an experience with the Hawks that brought together cutting-edge technology, storytelling and physical space to excite, inspire and persuade visitors,” Jeff Alpen, Hornall Anderson managing director, said.

“The space is a beautiful combination of innovation, exploration and function and celebrates the uniqueness and vibrancy of Atlanta and its people.”

Designed to build anticipation ahead of the reopening, the sales centre seeks to puts visitors in control of their experience, while empowering the Hawks’ salespeople with the tools needed to be responsive to their guests.

“As a renovation of an existing building, we wanted the sales centre to be a reflection of our approach to the building – and that’s to use new technologies to create immersive social experiences for our fan,” Thad Sheely, Atlanta Hawks chief operating officer, added.

“That’s exactly what the Preview is – it feels more like a Disney ride than a sales centre and is a true emotional and physical expression of what we strive to create in the reimagined Arena.”

The Hawks will remain at its Philips Arena home until at least 2046 after the City of Atlanta agreed to provide funding for renovations at the facility in November 2016.

The Hawks signed an 18-year lease extension at the arena, with the redevelopment project including the installation of new amenities on each level of the arena, as well as 360-degree connected concourses at all levels, improved sight lines and state-of-the-art video throughout the facility.

Image: Mike Gonzalez