#public-plaza

#public-plaza

The basketball arena is hardly the second thought here, but it's much more a piece of this broader civic space than the typical pro sports facility. Especially compared to the U.S., where the stadium is often the only element of such a project, Roig Arena and its public amenities offer a refreshing take on a form of urban development that favors the "development" over the "urban." Open since September, the project was designed by the international architecture firm Hok and Valencia-based Erre.

Located on St. Louis' Grand Boulevard, the project expands and reimagines the 1925-built theater building while preserving its architectural character and acoustic qualites. The global architecture firm worked alongside Christner Architects, Schuler Shook, BSI Constructors, and Kirkegaard to create a 64,000-square-foot addition in time to celebrate the hall's centennial in 2025. The expansion improves accessibility and introduces new public spaces, educational spaces, and backstage areas to support the full scope of the Symphony's programs and community events.