By Kelli Gustafson – RogersPlace.com
With less than six weeks to go until Rogers Place opens its doors to the public for the Open House on Saturday, September 10, the excitement around the new arena continues to grow throughout Northern Alberta.
“We’re seeing rapid evolution of the finishes in the building.”
Bob Black, Chief Project Development Officer for Oilers Entertainment Group, commented on the 1,250 workers (approximately) currently putting the final touches on Rogers Place:
“It’s actually quite awe-inspiring to see how much can be achieved in one day with that kind of a workforce in a very coordinated work effort.”
“We’re seeing rapid evolution of the finishes in the building,” Black added.
With the final details and finishes being made inside the new arena, Black anticipates the finished product will amaze and captivate the fans that see it first-hand on September 10.
“I’m pleased to say that there has been no disconnect between what I envisioned us designing to what I’m seeing constructed. It has already exceeded my expectations.”
“I genuinely believe that people are going to be surprised by the whole building.”
“It’s an important part of the experience that no matter where you are in the building, you’re connected to the event.”
One of the highlights of the building Black anticipates fans will appreciate most is the ability for different spaces within the facility to cater to specific demographics.
“This is a building that has something for everyone!” Black said.
With what Black refers to as different “neighbourhoods,” these different spaces around the arena allow the diverse array of sports and entertainment fans to find something that speaks to them.
Whether you are enjoying the show from one of the many premium spaces within the venue, or watching from seats in the upper or lower bowl, all the spaces offer an enhanced experience for patrons — with easier access to washrooms, free-flowing space among all concourse levels, increased options for food and beverage, and great sightlines of the bowl from active social spaces.
“It’s an important part of the experience that no matter where you are in the building, you’re connected to the event,” Black said.
“We want to enhance that connectivity by not only ensuring those sightlines, but also by ensuring there’s tremendous support by the technology in the building.”
Fans who leave their seats to socialize near one of the Bistro Bars will not only preserve that sightline of the bowl, but will also be able to catch all the action on one of the 1,200 digital screens around the building.
After visiting more than 40 venues worldwide, Black and his team have considered every detail of the planning and construction of Rogers Place.
“These spaces have been designed using the best ideas from around North America — around the world,” he said.
“[There are] great mix and mingle locations throughout the building where people can business and social network, while still being in touch with the action.”
Planning on attending the Rogers Place Open House on September 10? Read below to find out more about the different levels inside the arena!
BY THE LEVELS — A QUICK GUIDE OF ROGERS PLACE:
Ford Hall:
For many, this is where you will first enter the venue. Overstretching 104 Avenue, Ford Hall is a public space that is open to all patrons — including those without event tickets — offering up an area for fans to come together in celebration of the Oilers, Oil Kings, or their favourite artists performing at Rogers Place.
Main Concourse:
After entering the gates through Ford Hall, fans will be met by the Main Concourse level. This level plays host to the main food and beverage options, retail, and washrooms for fans seated in the lower bowl. The open concept allows every fan to continue to feel a part of the event they are attending, even when they leave their seats to visit a concession or washroom.
Mezzanine Lounges:
Below the Main Concourse, located on both the North and South end of the building, the Mezzanine Lounge provides a variety of local, traditional, and upscale food options for those seated in Club Seats. Some menu items include artisan pizzas, sushi and gourmet burgers.
Suites Level:
Above the Main Concourse, the Suites Level includes both the Scotiabank Suites as well as Theatre Boxes. The Scotiabank Suites seat 12 to 15 people, while the Theatre Boxes are able to provide the same private comfort and premium meal service, but on a smaller scale (seating between four to six people).
Loge Level:
The Loge seating has quickly become one of the most anticipated hospitality products at Rogers Place. Two tiers of semi-circular tables allow groups of four to enjoy a more social setting, while still being met by premium service and a private concourse. In front of the Loge Tables, the Loge Ledge offers additional seating options for fans. The cushioned barstools with backrests and footrests give patrons both a casual and comfortable feel while enjoying an event.
Upper Concourse:
Similar to the Main Concourse, the Upper Concourse provides a space for those seated in the upper bowl to access for food, beverage, retail and washrooms. This relieves congestion from an alternative common concourse, providing fans with the ease and comfort to wander, explore different food options, and mix and mingle within this space.
Sportsnet Club:
The Sportsnet Club is a two-level club sitting directly above the lower bowl on the east end of the building, providing a similar social space as a sports bar but with an enhanced, all-inclusive food and beverage service. This space is the perfect fit for the ultimate sports fans looking to find premium food and beverage options.
Sky Lounge:
For those looking to find a chic, trendy space with all-inclusive premium food and beverage options, the Sky Lounge — located above the Sportsnet Club — will cater to these tastes. Furthermore, this space transforms itself into a nightspot following an event. Find out more here.