1.4K 
Global architecture firm Populous has hit a home run with their latest sports stadium, SunTrust Park, which blends the best features of a classic ballpark with the hallmarks of southern hospitality. Located 16 kilometres northwest of downtown Atlanta, the first game at the new park for the home team Braves was played on April 14, 2017. Two years prior, multiple construction cameras strategically positioned around the site by EarthCam would document every stage of construction and host the captured images online for the world to see. Now, the footage collected over that 26-month period has been compiled into an enlightening time-lapse movie.
The $622 million stadium was constructed after the team announced in 2013 that it would not renew the lease at their longtime home at Turner Field. Having already designed 19 of the 30 stadiums currently being used for Major League Baseball, the Atlanta Braves would appoint Populous as the architect. The practice also completed work last year on T-Mobile Arena, which will serve as the home of the National Hockey League's expansion franchise, the Vegas Golden Knights.
The exterior facade heavily features precast stone and brick, which Braves executive vice president of sales and marketing Derek Schiller says gives the ballpark a sense of "timelessness." On the inside, three overlapping decks pull the 41,000 spectator seats closer to the action on the field. Fans are shielded by the largest canopy in the league, three times bigger than some of the others. For added comfort during hot summer months, the lower level seats are outfitted with mesh bottoms and backs to optimize air flow.
With a mixed-use neighbourhood characterizing the area around the stadium, there's a lot to do beyond centre field. A children's play are features a tree house, climbing tower and zip line, while the curated Monument Garden honours the best moments and players of the franchise.
Additional images and information can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion or share your photos? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment in the field provided at the bottom of this page.
