Trahan Architects has completed an extensive interior renovation of the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. This project is part of a broader renovation effort initiated after Hurricane Katrina, aiming to extend the stadium’s lifespan by 25 years.
A Legacy of Restoration
Trahan Architects was first engaged in the Superdome’s restoration in 2005 following its damage from Hurricane Katrina, where the building served as a crucial shelter for evacuees. The studio’s latest renovation phase builds on previous exterior upgrades, which replaced the original aluminum panels with a rainscreen system made of anodized aluminum.
Revamping the Interior
The current renovation phase, completed in time for the NFL season’s opening game, involved removing the outdated ramp circulation system from the concourse. This modification has allowed the creation of more spacious and functional areas, including the addition of atriums and lounges, expanding the usable area by over 100,000 square feet (9,290 square meters).
Creating a Microcosm of New Orleans
Trahan Architects sought to infuse the Superdome with a sense of local identity and community. “With this interior overhaul, we wanted the building to feel like a microcosm of our city,” said Trey Trahan, the founding principal of Trahan Architects. The design mimics New Orleans’ community-oriented streetscapes, with the interior reimagined as a series of interconnected neighborhoods or “faubourgs.”
Emphasizing Material Continuity
A significant aspect of the renovation involved incorporating the materiality of the original facade inside the building. The atriums, a major visual intervention, are clad with anodized aluminum rods, reflecting the exterior’s aesthetic and maintaining a continuity of design.
Addressing Functionality and Resilience
The renovation also focused on enhancing the building’s functionality and resilience. Trahan Architects collaborated with Thornton Tomasetti to ensure that the Superdome could withstand high winds and other environmental challenges. The removal of ramps revealed previously underutilized space, which was repurposed for public use, building operations, and new mechanical systems.
Accessibility and Future-Readiness
The renovation addressed universal accessibility, an important consideration given the building’s age. New accessible decks and modern mechanical systems were integrated without compromising the building’s aesthetic. The project also included the installation of emergency generators to mitigate issues experienced during Hurricane Katrina.
Preserving and Enhancing Original Features
Certain original features of the Superdome were preserved and enhanced. For example, the “gutter tubs” on the roof effectively manage stormwater runoff, preventing overloading of the city’s drainage system.
Long-Term Impact
The comprehensive renovations are expected to extend the stadium’s lifespan significantly, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this iconic New Orleans landmark. “This comprehensive renovation is expected to extend the building’s lifespan by 25 years, allowing future generations to enjoy the same sense of community and excitement the New Orleans landmark has fostered for nearly half a century,” stated Trahan Architects.
Photos: Tim Hursley
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