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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
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NEWS
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


Sports stadium and events venue experts Populous have unveiled designs for the largest video gaming and esports complex in the Southern Hemisphere.
Europe's largest esports venue planned for Stockholm


Plans have been revealed to build Europe's largest esports gaming hub in the Swedish capital Stockholm.
Growth of esports 'has already impacted traditional sports'


A surge in investments made into the booming esports sector is now creating competition for traditional sports.
MORE NEWS
Mubadala makes €1 billion bid for Pierre and Vacances
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 will create a permanent global destination
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.
Australian waterpark acquisition creates new leisure attractions group
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.
London Museum reveals 2026 opening date for new Smithfield home
The London Museum’s new site will open in Smithfield, East London, on 28 November 2026.
Toverland unveils €98m expansion plan as park prepares to launch resort development
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.
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COMPANY PROFILES
IAAPA EMEA

IAAPA Expo Europe was established in 2006 and has grown to the largest international conference and [more...]
Polin Waterparks

Polin was founded in Istanbul in 1976. Polin has since grown into a leading company in the waterpa [more...]
ProSlide Technology, Inc.

A former national ski team racer, ProSlide® CEO Rick Hunter’s goal has been to integrate the smoot [more...]
Taylor Made Designs

Founded in 1993, Taylor Made Designs supply corporate clothing and brand-enhancing merchandise to [more...]
+ More profiles  
CATALOGUE GALLERY
+ More catalogues  
DIRECTORY
+ More directory  
DIARY

 

23-26 Aug 2026

Elevate Spa Riviera Maya Edition

The Riviera Maya Edition Kanai, Playa del Carmen, Mexico
29 Sep - 02 Oct 2026

Synergy - The Retreat Show

Pical Resort, Valamar Collection, Porec, Croatia
+ More diary  
 


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Leisure Media
Tel: +44 (0)1462 431385

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