Venue Design
Guide
Project Overview
This Venue Design Guide outlines the
general design requirements, recommendations and considerations required to
create a venue ideal for Major League Soccer.
It defines criteria central to providing
players, guests, press, staff and other service groups with a first class,
professional facility. While it
references many important considerations that are part of a multi-use facility
and at FIFA sanctioned competitions, its focus is to outline optimal design
specifications and best design practices for a Major League Soccer stadium.
The goal of this Venue Design Guide is to
provide direction to design stadia that are functional, efficient, flexible,
fan friendly, environmentally responsible, safe, clean and convenient in order
to stimulate attendance and maximize revenue opportunities. Additional goals of this Guide are to help
grow the popularity of the sport, enhance the in-stadium environment, recognize
the existence of existing facilities that might be retrofit for play in MLS and
distinguish between recommended and required design parameters.
Major League Soccer recognizes that each
stadium design project is unique with local site conditions that will dictate
specific approaches. MLS will consult
with the stadium design team as necessary to assure a professional and
high-quality final product.
July 2008
Venue Design
Guide
Chapter Headings
1. Field
1.1
Orientation
1.2
Size
1.3
Minimum
1.4
Maximum
1.5
Game Equipment and Markings
1.6
Board Positioning and Advertising
1.7
Technical Equipment
1.8
Root Zone Warming System
1.9
Other sports
2. Seating Bowl
2.1
Viewing
2.1.1 Optimal Viewing Distance
2.1.2
Sightlines
2.1.3. Recommended ‘c’ values
2.1.4 Tiers
2.1.5. Maximum rake
2.2
Seating
2.2.1 Lateral Aisles
2.2.2 Reserved Seating
2.2.3 Premium Seating
2.2.4 Aisles
2.2.5 Vertical Aisles
2.3 Roof Coverage
2.4 Vomitories
2.4.1. Spectators
2.4.2. Pitch Access
2.4.3. Players Tunnel
2.4.4. Vehicle Access
2.4.5. Guard/Barrier requirements
3. Circulation
3.1 Entry
3.2 General Access Turn style
3.3 Other Entry
3.4 Concourse
3.4.1. Concourse Circulation and Safety
3.4.2. Size of Concourse
3.4.3. Concourse Design – General
3.5 Stairs, Ramps, Elevators, and
Escalators
3.5.1. Stairs
3.5.2. Ramp
3.5.3. Elevator
3.5.4. Escalator
3.6
Normal Mode
3.7
Emergency Mode
4. Accessibility
4.1 Sightlines
4.2 Companion seating (
4.3 Ratio, Distribution and Design
4.4 Visual/Hearing Impairment
4.5 Concessions
4.6 Parking
5. Team Areas
5.1.Home
Team Area
5.2
Visiting Team Area
5.3
Game Officials Area
5.4
Administrative Area
6. Media & Broadcast Facilities
6.1 Written Press Area
6.2 Radio Broadcast Area
6.3 Broadcast Area
6.4 TV Truck/Satellite Area
6.5 TV Broadcast Announce positions
6.6 Photographer Area
7. Building Operations
(To be completed)
8. Building Systems
8.1
Power
8.2
Emergency Power System
8.3
Event Lighting
8.3.1
8.3.2 Player View Angles
8.3.3 Shadown Control Design
8.3.4 Specifications
8.3.5 Environmental Requirements
8.3.6 Sustainable Design Requirements
8.3.7 Sports Lighting Commissioning
8.3.8 Glossary of Terms
8.4 Technology
8.4.1 Telephone/Communications
8.4.2 Security
8.5 Sound
8.6 Scoreboard
8.7 Video Board
8.8 Signage
8.8.1 Sponsor Signage
8.8.2 Way-finding Signage
8.9 Service Yard
1.
FIELD OF PLAY
1.1.
Introduction
Major League Soccer has a strong preference
for a natural grass playing surface, but where this not practicable, any
non-temporary artificial surface used must meet Catergory 4 FIFA standards. It
is understood that local climatic and topographical conditions, the number of
events scheduled and construction/maintenance budgets will ultimately impact
the field type utilized.
The orientation of the field of play should be
positioned in relation to the sun and prevailing weather conditions.
Since MLS league operates between March
and November, with games played between late afternoon and early evening,
players, spectators and the media need to
be protected from the glare of the sun at these times. The stadium envelope can
greatly enhance the protection from the sun at these times if designed
properly.
However for natural grass field consideration thought
also needs to be given to the healthy growth of the grass. There needs to be
enough light and air movement to allow the grass to grow.
There is a range in which the orientation is considered
acceptable for these requirements highlighted. See diagram 2a. In
general terms, a north- south orientation is considered ideal. However the
average direction of the sun angle at halftime is the optimum orientation for
positioning to allow for the sun.
Prevailing wind and other physical
characteristics of the site will influence this optimum orientation.
It is strongly recommended that the MLS Field
footprint conforms to internationally accepted standards as well as all MLS
suggested dimensions. It shall include
in its final Field site plan sufficient area(s) for team and match officials
seating, ball persons locations, substitute player warm up areas, advertising
field boards (rotational, LED or static); event day security personnel and ushers;
event broadcast equipment and personnel, photographer areas; specific player
ingress and egress location(s); required game equipment (i.e. goals and
netting); possible event day storage (build-in areas near benches) as well as
adequate pre-event accessibility for any ceremonies performers and off-day
maintenance personnel. With the growing number of international matches hosted
by MLS teams, it is strongly recommended that the playing field also meets
accepted international standards. See Diagram 2b.
1.2.
Size
It
is mandated that MLS playing fields will
be 360 feet in length and 225 feet in width.
1.3.
Minimum
It is strongly recommended that the wall to wall
dimensions of the Field footprint be a minimum total of 425 feet from the north
spectator wall to its southern counterpart; 255 feet at the goal lines extended
to allow for field board and corner kick access; 285 feet at the midfield
sidelines extended (i.e. 225 foot required field width; 15 feet from the
sideline to the back of the team benches and Technical Areas; 15 additional
feet from behind the benches/Technical Areas to the wall; 15 feet from the midfield sideline to the field board
‘line and 15 feet from the field board ‘line’ to the wall on the sideline
opposite the team bench areas.
1.4.
Maximum
It is required that the maximum playing surface crown
or slope be no more than 1/2° based on a
225 foot wide field.
Additional
sideline space may be required and is mandated if a limited number of temporary
field-level VIP seats are to be employed on either a one-off or permanent
basis. These seats should be located only on the side of the field opposite the
team benches and primary field broadcast location and not within 4 yards of any
broadcast location. It is strongly recommended that these be limited in number
and come with strict, written rules outlining spectator conduct during play.
These VIP field-level seats should not adversely affect the sightline of any
spectator sitting in any other spectator seating area(s). Please see Section ____ for additional detail on this item.
Additional
space adjacent to the playing field (usually located behind each goal) shall be
provided for substitute player warm up areas.
This area should also allow for the circulation of ball persons, medical staff,
security personnel, photographers and broadcast personnel. It is recommended
that this space be a minimum of 16 feet deep by 278 feet wide. It shall be the
same surface type as the actual playing field.
It is
recommended that a 12 foot wide area immediately adjacent to the field wall and
extending completely around the playing field area and made of concrete or
crushed stone (or possibly some other porous material) be part of the overall
field level footprint to allow for pre-event set up and/or load out as well as
off-day maintenance vehicle access so that its use helps minimizes damage to
the actual playing field.
Any vehicle and
equipment access point is required to be appropriate in size to allow for
oversized and over the road vehicles to enter the field level via an access
ramp for event day set up and off-day work. This access should have a minimum
height clearance of 14 feet high with a 16 foot high clearance strongly
recommended. The corresponding tunnel area should also be wide enough to
accommodate tractor trailer size vehicles with the access tunnel for these
types of vehicles of sufficient grade from its original stadium entry point to
the field entry point to allow unimpeded access.
It is strongly
recommended that the player and/or match official entry points be from a
midfield location, usually on the West side. All field entrances should be
protected from the public view and out of the range of projectiles and include
a retractable awning or covering that can be extended accordion-like for
player/match official entry and exit onto and from the playing field. It should
be quickly retracted after each use.
1.5.
Game
Equipment and Markings
It
is required that the following being part of regulation equipment used on the
Field at MLS stadiums:
a. Soccer
goals and nets with ability to install permanent sleeves (and caps) for
international-style goals. See Diagram 2c.
b.
Bench shields
should only be used during inclement weather, when a safety issue exists or
when required for a specific match. Such
equipment shall minimize the impact to spectator sightlines. The approximate dimensions for bench shields
are 6.5 feet high, 15.75 feet wide and 4.75 feet deep. Please see Section ____ for additional detail on
this item.
c.
At least one (1)
replacement goal and at least two (2) extra corner flags shall be stored on
site and immediately available to the playing field area on game day if needed.
d. The use of four corner flags are required. The use of
midfield flags are optional. Any flag used should be of rigid construction and
conform to MLS and/or international specifications (i.e. be 5 feet high) with
all flags using the same color for the small flag attached to each pole.
e.
Each Team bench
shall have the ability to seat at least 20 people comfortably.
1.6.
Advertising
Board Positioning
Advertising
boards can be located around the playing field. They should be no higher than
3’. The minimum recommended distance advertising boards can be positioned to
the playing area is 13.1’ (4m ) from the touchlines and 16.4’ (5m) behind the
goal reducing to 9.8’ (3m) near the corner flags. (See diagram 2b and 2c).
Positioning
of advertising boards should not;
- Endanger
players, official or others.
- Obstruct the
views of the spectators to the field
- Obstruct
access to the field by players, officials, staff or spectators in the
event of an emergency.
Advertising
boards should not be constructed of materials that could endanger players.
1.7. Technical Area
Two
substitute benches should be located equidistant either side of the half way
line, parallel to the touchline. Each bench should be capable of Seating 22
people. (see diagram 2f).
They
should be located at ground level and provide some protection and be designed
to minimize obstruction of the view of spectators.
1.8. Root Zone Warming System
In the colder, northern climates where the
growing season can be shortened due to seasonal changes, the installation of a
turf root zone warming system has become a desired addition. The purpose of this system is to provide the
root zone with the optimum temperature for accelerating growth and maintaining
healthy turf well into the normal dormancy periods. There are primarily three ways to achieve
this; electric heat tape, hydronic tubing or forced air heat.
The electric heat tape is available from a
variety of manufacturers and traditionally has been the least expensive to
install. However, with the rising cost
of copper wire, the increase in electric energy rates and its susceptibility to
damage, this system is quickly losing its attractiveness.
The most effective method, hydronic tubing,
works much the same way as a large scale snowmelt system does. The tubing, typically a cross-linked
polyethylene (PEX) tubing with an oxygen diffusion barrier is installed in the
turf substrate sand below the root zone.
The field heat system is divided into 4 to 8 zones for controllability
and maintenance. Hot water, provided
from a dedicated boiler or the facility’s main heat system, is run through the
tubing to maintain the root zone temperature at 60 – 65 F. For most facilities this is a load of 7 mil
to 8 mil Btuh or approximately 70 Btuh/SF of turf area. This figure is dependent on the location of
the field, the local climate conditions and the intended use periods.
The
third method of turf warming is the distribution of heated air to the root
zone. In many new fields, the network of
perforated drainage pipe is being used to aerate the turf systems. The field aeration system is connected to the
main field drainage system through a series of isolation valves. A patented reversing valve on the fan allows
the field to be drawn down to eliminate excess moisture from the root zone or
to be pressurized in order to oxygenate the turf to promote growth. As an addition to the aeration system a duct
heater can be installed to deliver heated air into the field drainage system
and ultimately to the turf root zone.
Since this system is limited by the amount of air that the drainage system
can effectively handle and the temperature of air that can be safely
distributed, the heating load of this method is substantially less than the
hydronic tubing method. Typically the
output of this system is 1.5 to 1.8 million Btuh. Due to these limitations this approach is not
as effective as the hydronic method.
1.9. Other
Sports
The
playing area can be designed to accommodate other sports. However it should be
noted that if the viewing requirements (field dimensions) of these sports
differ greatly from Soccer it will compromise the viewing experience as
spectators will be further from the field than would be necessary. This effect
on this standard of viewing should be considered at the beginning of the design
stage. Stadia designed for a particular sport will always offer a better viewing
experience than multi venue facilities. It is not recommended that a Soccer
stadium be combined with an athletics track.
2.
SEATING BOWL
2.1
Viewing
Write
Seating bowl design introduction. Include items such asSpectator
proximity/intimacy;Safety
Where
people different fan base wish to sit, side lines/behind goals.
Guest seating should be as close to the
field of play as practical. In locating the first row, consider television
broadcast implications, bench side location, position of scoreboard(s) sign
boards, and other operational needs in conjunction with field size and setbacks
set forth in Section __. Also consider
the installation of bench shields. With
the desire to create an intimate seating bowl as an important goal, locate
certain low level seats immediately behind obstructions such as team benches
sign boards, official’s tables and TV platforms. These obstructions should be
considered in the design of the seating bowl, and may be considered acceptable
to create the intended intimacy and proximity to the field of play.
2.1.1. Optimal Viewing Distance
It
becomes difficult for spectators to see the Soccer ball beyond the maximum
viewing distance of 190m, the preferred viewing distance is 150m from the
furthest point of play. This can be simplified to a circle of 90m centered on
the field of play (see diagram 3a). This Optimal viewing area should be
considered when designing the bowl.
2.1.2. Sightlines
The
seating bowl needs to be designed in order to allow good views for all
spectators to the field of play. In order to do this sightlines need to be
established and maintained. The Sightline is the spectator’s ability to see the
nearest point of interest on the field (point of focus) over the heads of other
spectators in front. This height is known as the ‘c value’.
This
also includes other obstructions such as advertising boards; the positioning of
these boards needs to be agreed at an early stage when developing the sections
to avoid blocked views later on.
Typically
the ‘worst case’ section that needs to be designed is the closest seating
section to the field of play, this normally occurs at the sidelines or at the
corners, depending on geometry of the bowl. If sightline sections are derived
from this point then in all other areas of the bowl sightlines will be
maintained.
2.1.3. Point of Focus
The
point of focus when designing a stadium for soccer is the outer edge of the
field of play or touchline. (see diagram
3b). The Highball line is also a secondary sightline that needs to be
maintained (see 3.1.2.4).
2.1.4. Calculation
The
geometry of the section to maintain sightlines is defined by the following
calculation (see diagram 3c);
This
formula generates sections that are curved not straight, the riser in each row
actually increases in height the further back from the field it is.
For
construction standardization in riser height is favored. The section can be
divided into facets that provide some degree of standardization while
maintaining optimum views. Increments of 0.5” in the stepping of a tier are
acceptable.
2.1.5. Recommend ‘C’ Values
The
lower the seat is in relation to the field of play the narrower the angle of
view is of the field. Therefore the disturbance caused by seats in front is
higher (see diagram 3d). For this
reason the ‘c’ value should be higher in lower tiers than in higher tiers.
The
recommended minimum ‘c’ value for different tiers are as follows: For the Lower
Tier – 3.54” (90mm) and for the Middle Tier and Above – 2.36” (60mm)
2.1.6. Highball
When
designing tiers the highball line should also be considered so that any tiers
above do not obstruct the view of the ball in the air. This highball sightline
is considered to be 49.2’ (15m) above the centre spot of the field. (see diagram 3b).
2.1.7. Sightlines in Plan
Views
to the touchline need to be considered in plan as well as in section. It is
important that views to all corners are maintained.
2.1.8. Tiers
In
order to seat between 20,000 – 30,000 spectators there will be a number of
tiers involved in the seating bowl. Separation of the reserved seating spectators
from the premium facilities can be achieved by level. Premium Seating should be centered on the
reserved seating touchline, on the stand that will receive the least glare on
during the game, typically the western stand.
Depending
on the size and arrangement of the stadium an upper reserved seating tier may
be required. When designing reserved seating tiers above premium tiers it is
very important that there is no overlooking.
2.1.9. Angle of Rake
The
angle of the final seat can be restricted by one of two factors, the rear row
of the seats must fit the minimum of the following requirements;
- Angle of rake.
The recommended angle of rake of the last row should not be greater than
34°. Seating above this angle are uncomfortable and can induces a sense of
vertigo when descending radial aisles.
- Local staircase regulations may also govern the
height of the last row. (For example in IBC2006 the maximum rise allowed
in a step is 9”, in a typical row width of 36” only 3 stair treads of
minimum 11” can fit so the maximum allowable rise is 27”.)
2.2.
Seating
As a
minimum all spectators should be seated on self–rising individual seats with
backrests. It is recommended each seat has armrests. Individual seats should be
fixed to the structure (either riser or floor mounted). The construction of
seats should be appropriate to withstand weathering in the local climate,
fireproof and unbreakable. All seats should be individually marked and easily
identified and locatable.
The
final seating arrangements are dependent on a number of factors, controlled by
egress in emergency situations, in general these are;
- Clear width (a
combination of row width and seating specification).
- Access to the
row.
- The number of
rows in the tier.
- Furthest
distance to the concourse.
Local and state code should be consulted for these
requirements.
2.2.1. Lateral Aisles
2.2.2. Reserved Seating
Row Width – minimum 33”, 36”
recommended
Number of Seats in a Row – 22
Minimum Seat Specification – 19”
self rising with arms and backrests.
2.2.3.Premium Seating
Premium
Seating Areas require higher seat specification and space standards.
For
Club Seating, the following standards should be followed: Row Width – minimum
36”;
Number
of Seats in a Row – 20 and Minimum Seat Specification – 21”
These
seats should be padded self rising with arms,
cupholders and backrests.
For
Suite Seating, these standards are recommended: Row
Width – minimum 36”;
Number
of Seats in a Row – see section 5.2.3 and Minimum Seat Specification – 22”
These seats should also be padded self rising with arms with
cupholders and backrests.
2.2.4. Aisles
Aisles
should be provided so that no spectator has to travel further than the travel
distance required by local code (under IBC 2006 this distance is 200’ from seat
to concourse along the line of travel). They should be even with no trip
hazards and surfaces should be slip resistant.
2.2.5. Radial Aisles
The
minimum width of any radial aisles should be 48”. The final width is dependent
on emergency egress requirements. These are based on the following factors;
- Smoke
protected or non-smoke protected
- Flow rates of
spectators to evacuate the stadium.
Local
Code should be consulted on these requirements.
Steps
in radial gangways will be determined by the gradient of the seating rows, they
should be kept as uniform as possible within these requirements and should not
exceed local code.
Lateral
aisles have the potential to block the view of those seated directly behind as
people circulate through them. The seating section must be designed so that
sightlines are maintained over a standing person in the lateral aisle. (see diagram 3c). The minimum width
should also be 48”.
2.3.
Roof Coverage
It is
recommended that all new stadia have a roof providing coverage to the first row
of seating. This provides;
- Atmosphere – a
full roof reflects crowd noise back into the stadium to increase the
intensity of the spectator experience.
- A good degree
of protection from the elements for spectators
The inner edge of the roof
should be transparent to allow the softening of the shadow created by the roof
for comfort of players, spectators and cameras. (see diagram 3d)
2.4. Vomitories
2.4.1. Spectator
Spectator
vomitories are an access point built into the stadium bowl to connect seating
directly to concourses, commonly used to reduce travel distances. These
approaches can be level or through stairs. The following requirements should be
met;
- If the
vomitory access uses steps they should comply to local code requirements.
- Approach to
the vomitory should be from the front or sides only. If approached from
behind barriers must be provided to redirect the approach to the sides.
- Consideration
should be given to objects being accidentally knocked onto spectators
passing through vomitories.
- If possible exit
from a vomitory from the seating bowl should be elevated in order that
spectators can see over the heads of people in front.
2.4.2. Pitch Access
2.4.3. Players Tunnel
Players
and officials should have access from their changing rooms to the playing
field. Typically this is a tunnel located on the west side of the stadium at
the halfway line, although other positions and combinations are possible.
This
should be a minimum of 13.1’ wide and 7.9’ high. A fireproof telescopic tunnel
should be provided to protect players and officials as they enter and exit the
field.
2.4.4. Vehicle Access
At
least 1 Vehicle access point will be required onto the field for maintenance,
emergency and concert use.
2.4.5. Guard/Barrier Requirements
Guard
rail heights, loads and openings should be adapted to local code.
3.
CIRCULATION
3.1. Entry
Brief Introduction here
3.2. GA Turnstile Provision
Turnstiles
should be provided on a ratio of 1:750 spectators. It is better for the
majority of circulation to happen outside the stadium therefore the turnstiles
should be distributed evenly so that spectators can enter at a position in
close proximity to their seats.
3.3. Other Entry
Premium
Facilities should have their own entrances normally with their own lobbies,
club and suite entrances may ne separated. The number and distribution of these
depends on the location of the premium facilities but should be designed to
minimize distances within the stadium.
Media
and Staff will also require their own entry and registration point.
Team
entry and drop-off should be as close to the team facilities as possible and
should be secured from other parts of the building.
3.4. Concourses
Concourses
generally provide two main functions;
a. circulation of spectators to and from their seats
during the event and during emergency evacuation
b. access to concessions, restrooms and other spectator
facilities
Both
these functions must be considered in the design of this space. However it is
important that access to facilities does not impede the safe circulation of
spectators.
3.4.1. Concourse Circulation and Safety
Concourse
circulation needs to be designed to allow smooth flow of spectators during
ingress and egress, especially at peak flow times. In order to achieve this,
the following need to be considered;
a. Ingress and egress routes should be as direct as
possible
b. Routes to spectator facilities should not cross
general circulation routes
c.
Allowance for
potential queues from concessions or restroom should not impede general
circulation routes. (The number of restrooms and catering outlets needs to
carefully considered to avoid congestion at these facilities, see section 5
spectator facilities).
d. Positioning of Television screens should be such that
they do not encourage groups gathering in main circulation routes.
3.4.2. Size of Concourses
The
width and spatial arrangement of facilities on the concourse will largely
determine the size of the concourse. It should take into account entry and exit
width requirements and queuing for facilities. The choice in positing of
facilities will greatly affect the final concourse size.
At
early stages in the design it may be useful to use certain ratios to size the
concourse; however the eventual area will more likely be governed by the width
requirements already mentioned. As a general rule the following areas per
person should be used;
a. General Admission – 4ft²/person
b. Premium - 5ft²/person
3.4.3. Concourse Design - General
The
following design considerations should be taken when designing concourses;
a. Signage should be positioned so that it is visible at
peak usage and places in both lateral and transverse directions in order that
it can be seen from any point of approach.
b. Lighting levels needs to be sufficient for
orientation, natural light is preferable.
c.
Floor finishes to
be non slip
d. Courses should have a very low fire load
e.
Concourses should
take into accountant at an early stage positioning of trash receptacles etc. so
that they do not block circulation routes.
3.5.
Stairs, Ramps,
Elevators and Escalators
3.5.1.
Stair design
should comply with local code requirements. In general stadia stairs should
comply with the following;
a. Stairway width should be uniform
b. All goings and risers on each stair should be uniform
c.
Open risers
should not be used
d. Tapered treads should not be used
e.
Nosings should be
clearly marked
f.
Stair treads
should be non slip, be of durable construction and have adequate drainage where
appropriate
g.
Adequate
illumination should be provided, natural light is preferable.
h. Channels should be separated to prevent overspill from
one to another.
3.5.2.
Ramp design
should comply with local code requirements. In general stadia ramps should
comply with the following;
a. Maximum gradients should not exceed 1 in12
b. Gradients should be constant and not broken by steps
c.
Ramp surfaces should
be non slip.
d. Handrails should be provided to the same criteria as
stairs.
3.5.3. Elevators
should comply with local code requirements. Generally they cannot be counted
upon to move large amounts of people, they are suitable for certain users,
these include;
a. Premium Spectators, especially suite users.
b. Media, these are often shared with premium facilities.
c.
Staff and service
operations.
d. Disabled and wheelchair users (see section 6
accessibility).
3.5.4. Escalators
should comply with local code requirements. They should not be used to
calculate emergency evacuation capacity. Escalators should also discharge into
a sufficiently large space in order that in the event of congestion people can
step off. Consequences of breakdown should also be considered when designing
circulation routes.
3.6.
Normal mode
3.7.Emergency
mode
Reserved Seating
Restrooms
Gender
Ratios
The gender ratio when
calculating restroom facilities is Male – 60% and Female – 40%.
Appliance
Ratios
The minimum ratios for
appliances are as follows: Male
Restroom- Bathrooms 1:600;Urinals 1:70 and Hand
Restroom should also include mirrors and
sufficient soap dispensers and hand dryers, normally at a rate of 1 per 2 hand
wash basins.
Entry/Exit
To ensure free flow of
spectator’s restrooms should be designed to have a one way access system (entry
and exit) or a wide enough single entry to allow people to pass comfortably.
See diagram 5a for suggested layouts.
Male and Female restrooms
should be distributed evenly around the stadium to minimize travel distances.
(See Diagram 5b for suggested
distribution). Cleaners closets should be included to serve each pair of
toilets.
Family
Restrooms
Family Restrooms should be
distributed evenly around each concourse at a ratio of approximately 1:5000
spectators. They should include;
a.
Hand wash basin
b.
W.C
c.
Baby change
facilities
Finishes
Robust finishes that are
easily cleaned will be required in all restrooms. Appliances also need to be
robust and should be wall hung to allow for ease of cleaning. Well maintained
facilities are less likely to attract vandalism.
Queuing
Allowance has to be made for
queuing in front of a POS , to avoid further congestion a channel should also
be allowed for people to leave once they have collected their food/beverages. (see diagram 5c)
Ticketing/Box
Office
Ticketing controls entry into
the stadia. Not only is it a source of driving revenue but it also ensures
spectator safety and security.
Types
of Offer
Several types of ticket offer
are available and some of the ticket windows will have to be able to operate to
meet these needs. The number and type will depend on the final ticket
management plan but typically can include
a.
Advance
ticket sales; the opportunity to buy advance tickets for future events should
be offered before, during and after an event and positioned to attract sales
accordingly.
b.
Will-Call
Tickets; internet/telephone advance sale pick up.
c.
Cash/Credit
Card Ticket sales – can be combined with advance ticket sales.
d.
Return
Ticket/Help Counter
Distribution
Distribution and location of
ticketing windows depends on the configuration of the stadium. They can be part
of the concourse or located externally. The aim is to position these facilities
so that they serve the all ticketing needs for the event.
Ticketing/Box
Office Support Spaces
Typical Support spaces for
ticketing need to be provided these include;
a.
Ticket Managers
Office
b.
Ticket Vault
c.
Ticket Storage
d.
Staff Restroom
e.
Workstations
f.
Meeting Room
There spaces should be secure
and have controlled entry.
First
Aid
Rooms need to be provided for
the provision of First Aid to spectators. They should be accessible from all
parts of spectator concourses, satellite First Aid rooms should be added if
required.
They should;
a.
Be easily
accessible to both spectators and emergency vehicles
b.
Clearly
Signposted and identified
c.
Allow wheelchair
and stretcher access
d.
Include a waiting
area for friends/relatives.
e.
Be designed so
they can be cleaned easily and kept hygienic
The facilities within should
be agreed with local officials and stadium management however they typically
include:
a.
Couch(es)
b.
Worktop
c.
Restroom
facilities
d.
Sink with supply
of potable, hot and cold water.
e.
Telephone
f.
Heating/Lighting
g.
Medical Supplies
Storage
Lost
and Found
A Counter should be available
for spectators to go to recover/hand in lost items. Its location should be
clearly identified. This can be combined with customer service facilities.
Customer
Service
Customer service stations
should be provided to provide spectator assistance during an event. They should
be accessible from all concourses.
Public
Telephones
Public telephones should be
provided at convenient points along the concourses for spectator use.
Premium Seating
Premium seating areas will
require better service and a higher grade of finish than those of General
Admission areas.
Restrooms
Club and Suite Lounge areas
should provide an even distribution of restroom facilities.
Gender Ratio
The gender ratio when
calculating premium restroom facilities is Male – 50% and Female – 50%.
Appliance Ratio
The appliance ratios for
premium facilities should be slightly higher than that of the provision in GA
areas. This is largely determined by the level of service that the stadium
wishes to provide and there are no fixed rules. A suggested set of ratio is;
Male Restroom
W.C’s 1:tbc
Urinals 1:tbc
Hand Wash Basins 1:tbc
Female Restroom
W.C’s 1:tbc
Hand Wash Basins 1:tbc
Club/Suite Lounge
Premium Lounges should be
located so they can be conveniently accessed by all premium spectators. Club
and Suite Lounges can either be combined or separate depending on the level of
exclusivity. The facilities required in these areas depend on the level of
service. As a minimum there is a bar and some sort of food offer (unless
private restaurants are also utilized).
Suites
Suites facilities should
include;
a.
External Seating
9-18 people
b.
Lounge Area
c.
Unisex Restroom
d.
Bar/counter/kitchenette
e.
Servery
f.
Closet
A Typical Suite Layout is in
shown in diagram 5d, the final
layout depends on the service required. It is possible for suites to share some
facilities.
Retail
Team Retail should be
available for selling merchandise to spectators. The store must be able to be
accessed on event and non event days. Portable vendors may also be used on
event days. Storage must be included for all these areas.
Private/Public
Restaurants
Private restaurants may be
included in premium club/suite lounge areas.
3.6. ATM
If provided ATM’s should be
located near retail facilities.
4. ACCESSABLITY
All stadia should provide
proper access to spectators with disability in safety and comfort. The
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and all the local code must be complied
with in the design of the stadia.
4.1.
Sightlines
To ensure that wheelchair
users are not unsighted by spectators standing in front of them super-risers
are employed. There are 3 basic conditions for wheelchair positions on a tier;
their use is mainly dictated by the method of access.
4.2.
Companion seating (
Seating is provided for
Disabled Spectators and their companions
Seating Numbers
Wheelchair
Wheelchair spaces are
provided at 1% of the total capacity
Companion
Companion Seating is provided
at 1% of the total capacity.
4.3.
Ratio, Distribution and Design
The size of concessions is
partly governed by the numbers of Points of Sale (P.O.S.). It is important that
the ratio of POS to spectator is right for the facility to avoid overcrowding
around these areas.
As a general rule a ratio of
1:150 is acceptable.
4.3.1.
P.O.S. Ratio
Ticket windows should be
provided at a ratio of at least 1:2000 spectators.
4.3.2.
Distribution
As with Restroom the
Concessions should be distributed evenly around the concourse to minimize the
distance spectators have to travel to reach a concession stand. (see diagram 5b)
The position and quality of
disabled spectators should be varied and allow the same choice as non-disabled
spectators. Essentially there should be some provision in all areas.
4.3.3.
P.O.S. Design
The exact size of these will
vary with the food offer but an allowance of 4 linear ft per POS is considered
an acceptable initial estimate. An example layout of a POS position is shown in
diagram 5c.
Front of Tier
See diagram 6a
Mid Tier
See diagram 6b
Rear of Tier
See diagram 6c
Circulation
Care needs to be taken to
allow enough circulation when designing wheelchair positions
Diagram 6d
describes the space required for a disabled wheel chair position and access to
it.
Facilities
Restrooms
All restrooms should contain
one cubicle designed for wheelchair users. Sinks and dispensers must be
provided at the correct height. See diagram
6e for dimensions.
4.4.
Visual/Hearing Impaired
? induction loops
4.5. Concessions
Provision at concessions and
ticket windows should be made for wheelchair access.
When designing concessions
there are two main design considerations that need to be considered;
a.
The food and
beverages offered
b.
The number of
concessionaires
It is highly recommended that
a food consultant be appointed at an early stage so that these issues can be
addressed and the right allowance made early on in the design.
n general the following
guidelines can be used as a rough guide.
.
4.6.
Parking
Disabled Parking will be provided at a rate
of …
It is highly recommended that
a food consultant be appointed at an early stage so that these issues can be
addressed and the right allowance made early on in the design.
In general the following
guidelines can be used as a rough guide.
.
5. Team
Areas
Team facilities areas should
be designed so that players, staff and officials can carry out all their
required functions in safety and comfort. They should be inaccessible to
spectators and the media. Team facilities are best located at the main stand
centrally at the halfway line with level access to the pitch. Player facilities
should include home, visiting and 2 auxiliary team facilities as a minimum in
order that a double header tournament can be played. Other areas required are
areas for officials, medical and team staff. Diagram 7a illustrates a typical arrangement of these facilities.
Entrance
Team
facilities should have a private entrance where teams and players staff can
enter and leave in a secure environment removed from all spectators and media.
It should be accessible by cars, coaches and ambulance. Stretcher access should
also be considered in the internal arrangement of the Player facilities.
Team Facilities General
5.1.
Home Team Facilities should include the following as a minimum (see diagram 7b for typical arrangement);
Lockers Area
a. Bench seating for at least 25 people
b. Clothes hanging/lockers for at least 25 people
c.
Refrigerator
d. Tactical demonstration board
Locker
areas should be arranged so that the manager can address the team, typically in
a ‘u’ shape.
Treatment/Massage Area
a. Desk
b. 3 Massage Tables
c.
5 chairs
The
treatment/massage area should be separate from but adjacent to the locker area.
Restrooms/Showers
The
facilities provided as a minimum:
a. 10 showers
b. 5 hand wash basins and mirrors
c.
1 foot basin
d. 1 sink for cleaning boots
e.
3 Urinals
f.
3 W.C’s
g.
2 electric shave
points
h. 2 hair dryers
This
area should be privately accessible from the locker area.
Warm Up Area
To be
adjacent to the Team locker facilities.
Team Staff
Staff
areas should include;
a. Head Coaches office/changing room. To include;
-
Shower
-
WC
-
-
Locker
-
Desk
b. Assistant Coaches Changing. To include;
-
6 lockers
-
3 Showers
-
2 W.C’s
-
2 Hand Wash
Basins
c.
Equipment Manager
and Assistants
-
5 lockers
-
Trunk Storage
Space
d. Locker Room Assistants Office
These
areas should be directly accessible to the team facilities.
Additional Home Team Facilities
Some
additional areas for the home team may be considered. Much of these areas are
dependent on whether the home team will train at the stadium facility or
remotely. These areas include
-
Family Room
A
waiting lounge area for players family and invited guests. Facilities can
include kitchenette, television, lounge seating.
-
Team Meeting Room
This is
a team area seating 25 people for tactical meetings. It should have video
capability
-
Training Room
-
Weight Training
Room
-
Sauna/Steam Room
-
Doctors Office
Officials/Match Delegates
5.2. Male Referees Changing
Changing
area for 4 people to include (see diagram
7c for typical arrangement);
-
Clothes hanging
or locker facilities for 4 people
-
Bench or chairs
for 4
-
Desk
-
Massage table
-
2 Showers
-
W.C.
-
Urinal
-
Hand wash basin
-
Hand dryer
-
Shaving point
-
1 sink for
cleaning boots
Female Referees Changing
Changing
area for 4 people to include (see diagram
7c for typical arrangement);
-
Clothes hanging
or locker facilities for 4 people
-
Bench or chairs
for 4
-
Desk
-
Massage table
-
2 showers
-
2 W.C’s
-
Hand wash basin
-
Hand dryer
-
Shaving point
-
1 sink for
cleaning boots
Match Delegates Room
To
include;
-
Desk
-
3 chairs
-
Locker
-
Telephone
-
Fax
-
Photocopier
-
TV
-
W.C.
-
Hand wash basin
and mirror
Additional Staff
Ballboy/Ballgirl Dressing
2
rooms (one for each sex) should be provided for changing, to include;
-
Lockers
-
2 W.C’s
-
2 Hand Wash Basins
-
2 Showers
First Aid/Doping Control
First Aid Treatment Room
The
First Aid room should be located as close to the team facilities and the
playing field as possible. It must also have stretcher access directly to
emergency vehicles. It should include the following equipment (see diagram 7d for typical arrangement);
-
2 portable
stretchers
-
Hand wash basin
-
Low foot wash
basin
-
Glass basin
-
2 Treatment
Tables
-
Telephone
-
Partitions
-
W.C.
-
Shower
Doping Control
The
Doping control room must be located near to the Team facilities and Referees
facilities. It should include (see diagram
7e for typical arrangement);
-
Waiting area for
8 people including furniture
-
Work room, to
include a 2desks each with for chairs.
-
Toilet area, to
include W.C.,
Field Toilet
2
Field Toilets
should be provided close to access to the field of play.
6. MEDIA & BROADCAST FACILITIES
General Press Facilities
Media centre
Amenities
Restrooms
Concessions
Workstations
Mixed Zone
Conference Room
6.1. Written Press Area
6.2. Radio Broadcast Area
6.3. Broadcast Area
6.4. TV Truck/Satellite Area
6.5. TV Broadcast Announce Positions
6.6. Photographers Area
7. BUILDING OPERATIONS
Pitch Lighting
Scoreboard/Videoboard
PA/Sound
Stadium Operations
Administration
Catering Support
Storage
Telephone/Communications
Security
8. BUILDING SYSTEMS
8.1.
Power
8.2.
Emergency
Power System
8.3.
Event
Lighting
8.3.1.
8.3.2.
Player View Angles
8.3.3.
Shadown Control Design
8.3.4.
Specifications
8.3.5.
Environmental Requirements
8.3.6.
Sustainable Design Requirements
8.3.7.
Sports Lighting Commissioning
8.3.8.
Glossary of Terms
8.4. Technology
8.4.1. Telephone/Communications
8.4.2. Security
8.5. Sound
8.6.
Scoreboard
8.7. Video Board
8.8. Signage
8.8.1. Sponsor Signage
8.8.2. Way-Finding Signage
8.9. Service Yard
8.
CONCERTS
8.4. Stage Position
8.5. Field Seating Area Person
8.6. Field Standing
8.7. Gender Ratios
8.8. Restrooms
8.9. Concessions
8.10. Dressing Rooms
8.11. Green Room
8.12. Stage Rigging
8.13. Loading and Unloading
8.14. Protection of Playing Surface
8.15. Dressing room
8.16. Green Rooms
8.17. Stage Rigging
8.18. Loading/Unloading
8.19. Protection of Grass