Southern Methodist University (SMU) has selected HOK to design a new 165,000-sq.-ft. training complex in the south end zone of Gerald J. Ford Stadium.
The project includes new premium hospitality offerings, expanded spectator facilities, improved accessibility and new, inviting breezeways that connect the stadium’s entry experience to the action on the field.
“This project is an impressive investment that communicates SMU’s unwavering commitment to building and maintaining a legacy of athletic excellence for all student-athletes,” said Trevor Bechtold, director of Sports + Recreation + Entertainment for HOK. “The project will activate the stadium’s south side, become the new home for SMU Football and introduce new and exciting premium seating options that improve the fan experience and generate more revenue for the program.”
The Garry Weber End Zone Complex will connect the stadium’s existing east and west gate entries. New premium offerings will include loge boxes and club seating. The three-story complex will increase the functionality, efficiency and overall experience of Mustang football for student-athletes and fans. By consolidating all day-to-day functions under one roof and offering amenities unique to SMU, the facility will enhance recruiting and retention of top tier student-athletes and coaches.
Team-focused spaces will include a new locker room, a weight room, position-specific meeting rooms, a full-team auditorium, and a kitchen and training table to support all of SMU’s nearly 500 student-athletes. The facility will house football coaches, support staff, and video and recruiting services. The design will focus on health and wellness, with nutrition, training and sports medicine amenities that help student-athletes rest and recover.
“This exciting initiative is another great example SMU’s commitment to improve our facility portfolio with state-of-the-art design solutions and continued investment in our campus infrastructure,” said Michael Molina, SMU’s associate vice president and chief architect. “The HOK and JE Dunn team perfectly aligns with SMU’s Office of Facility Planning and Management’s cultural and operational shift to creative top-tier project delivery performance supporting the department’s mission of ‘ultimate service, superior management, positive impact.'”
The $90 million project will be complete before the 2024-2025 college football season. JE Dunn Construction is the contractor.