Thoughts on the metrodome....

Ironically, we almost missed this opportunity. Although aware that there had been various studies done on the metrodome over the last few years, I had not heard that there was a new rfq "on the street". Because of my frustration over the lack of innovation in sports architecture in this country, I have concentrated on diversifying MEIS architects internationally and other project types over the last couple of years. Fortunately however, I picked up the Sports Business Journal that day and learned that proposals were due within a week. I have thought of little else since!

This opportunity comes at a perfect time for this practice and is exactly the kind of project that we are most passionate about. The metrodome was a technological wonder in its day and seemed to fulfill the long sought promise of true multi-purpose. Unfortunately, today the building seems hopelessly antiquated when compared to the league's true state-of-the-art facilities. The
chance to recreate such an important venue, in a city so proud of both its team and its architecture, is the kind of challenge that fuels our practice. It requires innovation and creativity far beyond the effort of designing a facility from scratch.

The ideas illustrated in the Ellerbe study are exciting when compared to the existing structure but run the risk we believe of becoming yet another giant, decorated "shed" in the portfolio of american sports architecture.

How sustainable can an approach be that seems to throw away 90% of the existing structure? While the huge glass wall looking out to the skyline makes for impressive imagery, what is the cost to the energy load on the building, particularly in a climate as potentially harsh as minneapolis? It seems difficult to imagine a building of this scale, with full enclosure, to be built for $800M when we are seeing a number of open stadiums costing well over $1B!

If selected, it is the goal of this practice to explore every option possible to reduce both the cost and carbon footprint of this building. We believe that there is an opportunity, through innovative technology, and off-the-charts creativity to not only deliver a state of the art NFL venue, for significantly less that $800M, (THIS SHOULD BE CONSIDERED TABLE STAKES!) but also a true civic icon for the city of Minneapolis recognized as a model for sustainable architecture around the world.

The Metrodome is the most important sports project in the world to us and one that you can safely bet will have our full attention night and day...

Dan Meis, FAIA