HOK and SAP envision 'esports venue of the future' in new report
POSTED 30 May 2019 . BY Andrew Manns
Total revenue for the esports market is expected to reach US$1bn (€892.6m, £792.5m) this year. Credit: HOK/SAP
Esports have a unique audience that seeks more connected, hands-on experiences. – Nuno Guerreiro
Architectural design and planning firm Hellmuth, Obata & Kassabaum (HOK) and software company SAP have released their joint report on the future of esports design.
According to their white paper, esports – the fastest growing industry in the entertainment sector – will soon require specially designed facilities to accommodate the unique needs of spectators and competitors.
"As technology helps break down cultural barriers," reads the report, "esports are redefining fan expectations and experiences, leading to the development of new entertainment ecosystems with distinct values."
The report also states that future venues could feature a number of non-traditional elements, including integrated arenas and concourses, immersive hospitality offerings, and data-driven spaces shaped to cultivate "microambiences" (socialising outside game days).
Speaking on the report, Nuno Guerreiro, an architect with HOK’s Sports + Recreation + Entertainment division, said: "Purpose-built venues have historically had a significant impact in establishing a sport in a culture and community.
"Because of the length of these events and technological requirements, esports have a unique audience seeking more connected, hands-on experiences.
"Architects and designers have an opportunity to rethink every aspect of the traditional sports and entertainment environment – from a building's location and form down to the seat."
Total revenue for the esports market is expected to reach US$1bn (€892.6m, £792.5m) this year and exceed US$1.8bn by 2022.
Future venues could feature a number of non-traditional elements including integrated bowls and concourses. Credit: HOK/SAP
Arenas of the future may also offer a variety of hospitality-driven experiences. Credit: HOK/SAP
RELATED STORIES
Populous designs largest esports venue in Southern Hemisphere POSTED 27 Sep 2019. BY Stu Robarts Sports stadium and events venue experts Populous have unveiled designs for the largest
video gaming and esports complex in the Southern Hemisphere.
Abu Dhabi-based investment firm Mubadala Capital has made a binding, fully financed
€1 billion
offer to acquire Pierre and Vacances SA, the European holiday resort operator behind the
continental European Center Parcs business.
Expo 2030 Riyadh is being planned as a permanent visitor destination, with organisers
confirming the six-million-square-metre site will become a Global Village after the event closes.
The owner of one of Australia's best-known waterparks has acquired a major competitor,
creating a new attractions business spanning two of the country's largest visitor destinations.
HOK and SAP envision 'esports venue of the future' in new report
POSTED 30 May 2019 . BY Andrew Manns
Total revenue for the esports market is expected to reach US$1bn (€892.6m, £792.5m) this year. Credit: HOK/SAP
Esports have a unique audience that seeks more connected, hands-on experiences. – Nuno Guerreiro
Architectural design and planning firm Hellmuth, Obata & Kassabaum (HOK) and software company SAP have released their joint report on the future of esports design.
According to their white paper, esports – the fastest growing industry in the entertainment sector – will soon require specially designed facilities to accommodate the unique needs of spectators and competitors.
"As technology helps break down cultural barriers," reads the report, "esports are redefining fan expectations and experiences, leading to the development of new entertainment ecosystems with distinct values."
The report also states that future venues could feature a number of non-traditional elements, including integrated arenas and concourses, immersive hospitality offerings, and data-driven spaces shaped to cultivate "microambiences" (socialising outside game days).
Speaking on the report, Nuno Guerreiro, an architect with HOK’s Sports + Recreation + Entertainment division, said: "Purpose-built venues have historically had a significant impact in establishing a sport in a culture and community.
"Because of the length of these events and technological requirements, esports have a unique audience seeking more connected, hands-on experiences.
"Architects and designers have an opportunity to rethink every aspect of the traditional sports and entertainment environment – from a building's location and form down to the seat."
Total revenue for the esports market is expected to reach US$1bn (€892.6m, £792.5m) this year and exceed US$1.8bn by 2022.
Future venues could feature a number of non-traditional elements including integrated bowls and concourses. Credit: HOK/SAP
Arenas of the future may also offer a variety of hospitality-driven experiences. Credit: HOK/SAP
RELATED STORIES
Populous designs largest esports venue in Southern Hemisphere POSTED 27 Sep 2019. BY Stu Robarts Sports stadium and events venue experts Populous have unveiled designs for the largest
video gaming and esports complex in the Southern Hemisphere.
Abu Dhabi-based investment firm Mubadala Capital has made a binding, fully financed
€1 billion
offer to acquire Pierre and Vacances SA, the European holiday resort operator behind the
continental European Center Parcs business.
Expo 2030 Riyadh is being planned as a permanent visitor destination, with organisers
confirming the six-million-square-metre site will become a Global Village after the event closes.
The owner of one of Australia's best-known waterparks has acquired a major competitor,
creating a new attractions business spanning two of the country's largest visitor destinations.
The Toverland theme park in the Netherlands has announced a €98m expansion programme
that will add a resort, new attractions and staff facilities as it pursues plans to become a multi-
day destination.
Hotel de France, located on the British Isle of Jersey, has created a wellness retreat package
that includes a hot yoga session that will take place in Jersey Zoo’s butterfly sanctuary.
+ More news
COMPANY PROFILES
Painting With Light By combining lighting, video, scenic and architectural elements, sound and special effects we tell s [more...]
Holovis Holovis is a privately owned company
established in 2004 by CEO Stuart
Hetherington. [more...]
Polin Waterparks Polin was founded in Istanbul in 1976. Polin
has since grown into a leading company in
the waterpa [more...]
Simworx Ltd The company was initially established
in 1997. Terry Monkton and Andrew
Roberts are the key stakeh [more...]
