Director of Sports + Recreation + Entertainment shares insights on sustainability, technology and community-driven design.
Chris DeVolder, a director in HOK’s Sports + Recreation + Entertainment practice, recently joined host Kareem Rae on The One Soccer Nation Podcast to discuss the evolution of soccer stadiums and their role in shaping fan experiences and urban landscapes. The conversation explores HOK is redefining sports architecture—balancing global trends with local identity, integrating cutting-edge technology and prioritizing sustainability. From his St. Louis roots to his passion sparked by an unforgettable match in Italy, DeVolder offers a unique perspective on designing venues that will resonate with fans, owners and players alike.
Watch the entire conversation below and skip down for key takeaways.
On Sizing Stadiums for Success
“It’s critical to the success of both the stadium and the team. No one—designers, owners or operators—wants a facility that’s only 50% occupied regularly. We aim for something slightly smaller than the maximum potential to drive demand, targeting 90-100% occupancy consistently. That energy from a packed crowd pushes players to find an extra 5% effort.”
On Sustainability as a Revenue Driver
“We designed Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the world’s first LEED Platinum-certified professional sports venue. It opened an additional revenue stream because of its sustainability focus. New partners approached the Falcons and Atlanta United, saying, ‘We want to be part of this—how can we get involved?’ It’s not just about doing good. It’s a win for the environment, the team and the bottom line.”
On Mixed-Use Development Trends
“Stadiums anchor development and attract other elements like hotels, retail, restaurants and residential spaces. We’ve worked on projects incorporating fire stations, libraries and post offices to draw people daily. Recreation features—like trails or workout spaces—add vitality. The days of building facilities 20 miles outside the urban core are fading; now, it’s about integrating into the city fabric.”
On Technology Enhancing Fan Experience
“Technology drives the fan experience by removing friction. From finding parking via an app to breezing through security with facial recognition, it’s about ease. We’ve got beer machines filling pints in two seconds and markets where fans grab food and go without lines. At the seat, LED lighting and ribbon boards turn games into a show—color, sound and energy all synced for impact.”
On Blending Global and Local Design
“Design varies by country and even by city. We rely on local partners to guide us on regional business practices and culture. While much of our work is in the U.S., I was in England recently exploring opportunities. It’s exciting to blend global soccer trends with authentic local character, especially for supporters.”
On His Soccer Journey
“I’m from St. Louis, a city with a deep soccer heritage, and my family originally hails from Belgium, where the sport runs deep. My passion ignited while studying abroad in Italy when I attended a relegation match one night. The atmosphere was unlike anything I’d ever experienced—it hooked me instantly.”
DeVolder also shared personal favorites, naming Kevin De Bruyne as his top non-American player for his “Belgian brilliance” and Clint Dempsey for his unmatched creativity and grit.