HKS named Lead Architect for Washington Commanders new world-class stadium

The Washington Commanders have named HKS as lead architect for the team’s new state-of-the-art stadium in Washington, D.C. Deploying its deep expertise in designing iconic sports and entertainment destinations that balance design, functionality and community benefit, HKS’ stadium will be a core component of an 180-acre urban site that aims to be a year-round destination for sports, entertainment, housing, parks and recreation and neighbourhood amenities.

Mark A. Williams, FAIA, HKS Global Venues Director, said:

“HKS is thrilled to partner with the Commanders to design a new home that celebrates the pride and unmistakable energy of the nation’s capital.

“We’re reimagining what home-field advantage means by channeling the rhythm and the roar that made RFK so special and carrying that spirit forward in a bold new way. The site, set within the monumental fabric of Washington, D.C., is one of the most extraordinary in professional sports, and we are honoured to help write the next chapter in its history.” 

HKS designs each sports venue as a one-of-a-kind reflection of its city, shaped by the culture, climate and character of the people and communities it represents. The new Commanders Stadium will be designed with football at its core, delivering the loudest, most dynamic home-field advantage in the NFL. The stadium is also envisioned as a civic landmark for Washington, D.C., with monumental architecture and vibrant public spaces that come alive on game days and throughout the year.

Mark Clouse, President, Washington Commanders, said:

“This partnership underscores our shared vision to create a stadium that enhances the fan experience, strengthens our connection with the community, and sets a new standard for the future of sports and entertainment—delivering an exceptional experience that will serve our team, our fans and the District for decades to come.” 

The approximately 65,000-seat, roofed stadium will host more than 200 events every year, including global sporting events, concerts, community festivals and major national celebrations. Sustainability, advanced technology, an enhanced fan experience and amplified sponsorship integration will be at the forefront of the stadium design.

The 2026 SVB LIVE Conference & Exhibition – with its focus on innovating and elevating the live experience – is being hosted at Everton’s spectacular new Hill Dickinson Stadium on October 1st and 2nd, and will include a behind-the-scenes VIP Host Venue Tour, in addition to Premium Tours of two other Liverpool landmark venues.

Together, the stadium and new surrounding district will reconnect the city to the Anacostia River, catalyse local investment and create a destination for residents and visitors that thrives beyond game day. Plans also include the creation of 5,000 to 6,000 new homes, including 1,500 to 1,900 affordable units; preservation of the Fields at RFK; the addition of new youth sports facilities; and opportunities for hotel and retail development. At least 30 percent of the site will be dedicated to enhanced green spaces.

HKS will now map out the concept and schematic design with The Commanders and will host a series of community engagement meetings in November and December 2025 in coordination with the District of Columbia.

Vertical construction on the stadium is expected to commence in the spring of 2027; Full completion is scheduled for 2030.

From the Prix Versailles-winning SoFi Stadium to the World Architecture Festival-winning U.S. Bank Stadium and Sports Business Journal’s Stadium of the Decade, AT&T Stadium, HKS’ designs elevate the fan experience and set new benchmarks for innovation and sponsorship integration.

Source & imagery, courtesy of HKS

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