Northwestern University, Ryan Field
Northwestern University’s new Ryan Field reimagines the game day experience, creating a more intimate and immersive atmosphere. The design, created in collaboration with HNTB, reduces the seating capacity to 35,000 and lowers the field 21 feet below grade, bringing fans closer to the action. Entry from outdoor plazas directly into the concourse provides constant visual connections to the field.
The new stadium is rotated slightly off a North/South axis, creating outdoor plazas at each corner for students, alumni, and fans to gather, celebrate, and connect before and after games. These spaces will be enjoyed by the community on non-game days with seasonal activities throughout the year.
By lowering the field and rethinking the traditional stadium bowl, the design brings spectators closer to the action, with sightlines that rival the clarity of watching on TV. Gone are the benches and skyboxes of the past—in their place—comfortable seating and a canopy that offers protection from the elements, ensuring every fan enjoys a premium, connected experience.
Rotating the stadium unlocks opportunities to connect the community and enhance the game day experience. With ticketing positioned well outside of the stadium gates, the surrounding plazas become an integral part of field–offering a festival-like atmosphere where fans, students, and alumni can gather. Spaces buzz with activity before, during, and after the game, extending the energy far beyond the stadium itself. During the off-season, the plazas transform to host a variety of events, from seasonal celebrations to community gatherings, ensuring the stadium remains a hub of activity and connection year-round.
Designed with inclusivity at its core, Ryan Field will set a new benchmark for accessibility in college football. Open concourses with 360-degree views, accessible seating at multiple levels, and seamless circulation ensure fans of all abilities can easily navigate the stadium. The stadium goes well beyond ADA requirements, incorporating wide entryways and expansive terraces to ensure a seamless experience for everyone.
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