The selection is one of the steps in negotiations with the NBA to acquire an expansion franchise for Charlotte. Target date for occupation of the new building is fall 2005.
“We’re excited about our design team,” said Ellerbe Becket Architectural Director Doug Brown. “Each of our partners brings unique talents to the project. Odell is one of Charlotte’s oldest firms and has had a significant influence on the city’s skyline. The Freelon Group was recently honored with the 2001 American Institute of Architects Firm of the Year Award for North Carolina. And ColeJenest & Stone is the premier landscape design and civil engineering firm in Charlotte. Together we will build an arena that will reflect the culture of Charlotte and be a showcase in the NBA.”
Including the new Charlotte Arena, this will be Ellerbe Becket’s 15th NBA/NHL facility, more than any other design firm. Ellerbe Becket’s resume includes Madison Square Garden in New York City, the Fleet Center in Boston, Conseco Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, America West Arena in Phoenix and current projects such as SBC Center in San Antonio and the new Memphis Arena in Tenn.
Ellerbe Becket also designed a proposed arena for the Charlotte Hornets for a citywide referendum in 2001. After the referendum failed, the Hornets moved to New Orleans. Ellerbe Becket has continued to work for the Hornets, renovating the existing New Orleans Arena.
An innovator since its founding in 1909, Ellerbe Becket is a leader in architecture, engineering and the construction industry with office locations worldwide.
