The Lions' Ford Field The New Prototype For NFL Stadiums

Ford Field, set to open in '02, "is already being heralded" by the NFL "as the most unique and innovative sports complex in the country," according to R.J. King of the DETROIT NEWS, who noted the stadium "is integrated with a massive, six-story warehouse offering 111 luxury suites, bars, restaurants, stores and fan activity zones." The south wall of the stadium "is actually a facade of" the former 700,000-square-foot Hudson warehouse, a feature that is "unrivaled among other" U.S. pro stadiums. Lions Owner William Clay Ford: "I've been to just about every stadium out there, and no one has married a stadium to a historical warehouse." The stadium "is becoming a showcase" for the NFL and "is creating template for future stadiums." The NFL "is telling its franchises that new stadiums should be located in urban areas where nearby land owners and commercial tenants benefit from the new facility." The Lions "are looking to expand to several nearby properties. New uses include entertainment offerings such as additional bars, restaurants and entertainment venues to be used year-round." While the roof "will protect visitors from inclement weather, it also allows designers to be more creative in the selection of interior materials." Leather and cloth fabrics "are being used inside and outside for the suites because those materials will be protected from the weather." The 128 suites "have several notable touches, including bamboo floors, custom furniture, multiple [TV] and computer monitors and cushy, black leather seats" (DETROIT NEWS, 7/22).