Design Elements
Although roll-out natural grass playing fields have been used successfully in venues across Europe and Asia, Glendale's combination retractable roof and roll-out field was the first of its kind in North America. In addition, the stadium is aligned along a slight northwest to southeast axis to offer the maximum sun exposure for the grass field and maximum shade for stadium patrons.
Retractable Roof
The facility has two large panels that retract to uncover the entire playing field and has been designed to provide the right balance of sun on the field and shade in the seats. An open roof will allow fans to take advantage of Arizona's world famous climate and clear blue skies, but when closed will allow the building to host large conventions, trade shows, concerts, as well as other indoor events.
Roll Out Field
The stadium’s natural grass field rolls out of the facility where it resides most of the year to get its nourishment, maintenance and grooming. The field tray is 234 feet wide by 403 feet long and takes approximately 65 minutes to move into/out of the stadium. The 152,000-square-foot concrete stadium floor has a utility grid embedded in it so as to easily accommodate various events.
Seating Options
The facility has more than 63,000 permanent seats and capacity can be expanded to 73,000 for events such as the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl and future Super Bowls. Seating options include:
Total of 88 luxury suites on two levels (seating for approx. 1,500 patrons)
- Club seating for 7,000 with access to private club lounge areas
- Lower bowl seating to accommodate 29,000 patrons
- Upper deck seating for approximately 26,000 patrons
- ALL SEATS are individual chairs with arm rests and cup holders
Improved Amenities - for the comfort of patrons:
- All spaces are air conditioned
- Sharp increases in the number of concession points and the number of toilets per person
- Large concourses and escalators to efficiently move patrons through the facility
Architecture
The exterior design of the stadium, provided by renowned architect Peter Eisenman, along with HOK Sport, is very unique, making this a signature facility for Arizona. The basic form of the design takes its cue from barrel cactus and offers alternating vertical slots with smooth panels. In addition, light can penetrate the fabric roof allowing the stadium to have an open, airy feel even when the roof is closed.
