Stadiums evolve into mixed-use entertainment districts with residential and retail

A study conducted in 2024 by Klutch Sports Group and the Royal Bank of Canada identified 37 sport-anchored mixed-use districts (SMDs) in North America, which combine hotels, restaurants, retail spaces, and residential areas near stadiums. Renowned architects such as Foster + Partners and Rios anticipate an investment of $100 billion over the next 15 years. Key developments include the MAPS 4 Multipurpose Stadium in Oklahoma City, designed by Populous, and the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave in India. In Saudi Arabia, the Jeddah Central Development Stadium, created by GMP Architekten, includes adjacent 'villages.' Janet Marie Smith from the Los Angeles Dodgers emphasized the current trend of teams pursuing civic integration. Nevertheless, a study from 2026 highlighted deficiencies in long-term stadium planning.