The Historic Cotton Bowl

Facing the loss of several key events in its aging and historic football stadium, the city of Dallas, joining forces' with the State Fair of Texas, made the decision to protect the historic Cotton Bowl and expand it prospects for the future. The renovation project was located on a National, State, and City Historic Landmark that required a significant design effort to address historical sensitivity issues while satisfying the functional needs of two separate clients and several user groups.

Turner & Townsend Heery provided interior design and construction services as part the design-build delivery of the expansion and renovation on the 70-year-old Historic Cotton Bowl stadium in Dallas. The project was completed in two separate phases. For the first phase, the main goal was to enhance the fan experience by increasing the seating capacity from 76,000 seats to 92,000 seats in time for the 2008 Texas State Fair. The project also included renovations to the existing concourses including the restroom and concessions, new signage and lighting. Turner & Townsend Heery designed and built a new press and media conference space in the South End Zone that is adjacent to newly renovated and expanded locker rooms. These additions furthered the fan’s overall experience on gameday, making the Historic Cotton Bowl a unique athletic venue.

The second phase renovation included a new exterior façade mesh-panel system over the existing north and south end zone structure, creating an appealing approach and entrance for the stadium. In addition, the East and West Concourses received upgraded lighting and finishes, as well as the renovation of non-public restrooms, first aid, and work rooms at the south tunnel. The renovation of the existing West Press Tower included a new 2-level club space and the addition of a passenger elevator. The club space improved the VIP amenities and provided the City of Dallas with an additional price-point for gameday attendees.

Key components of the historical stadium's renovation includes:

• An increased seating capacity from 76,000 seats to 92,000
• Renovations to existing concourses
• Press and media conference space
• New exterior façade mesh-panel system
• Upgrade lighting and finishes
• New 2-level club space with passenger elevator