HKS has previously designed stadiums for the Los Angeles Rams and the Dallas Cowboys.
WASHINGTON — The Washington Commanders are taking one more step toward returning to the District and to the RFK stadium site. They selected HKS as the lead architect to design the new stadium HKS is responsible for three other NFL stadiums, including SoFi Stadium where the Los Angeles Rams call home, and AT&T Stadium where NFC East rival Dallas Cowboys play.
Mayor Muriel Bowser took a trip out to Texas to meet with architects back in last month.
“When you look at the other stadiums that have been built recently. We can learn what’s worked and what hasn’t worked,” Bowser told reporters in October, after attending the game between the Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium.
Bowser also said that she wanted the new stadium to include a roof so the stadium could be used year-round. She also voiced her support for D.C. hosting the Super Bowl in 2031, which would require a host stadium to have a domed roof if the average game temperature is below 50°F.
According to a press release, HKS plans is to use the franchise’s $2.7 billion private investment in D.C. to transform the 180-acres at the RFK Stadium site into a year-round destination for sports, entertainment housing, parks and recreation, and neighborhood amenities.
“Selecting HKS as the lead architect marks a major step forward in our journey to bring the Washington Commanders home to the District,” said Commanders team president Mark Clouse in a statement. “HKS has a proven track record of delivering world-class stadiums that balance design, functionality and community impact. This partnership underscores our shared vision to create a stadium that enhances the fan experience, strengthens our connection with the community, and sets a new standard for the future of sports and entertainment — delivering an exceptional experience that will serve our team, our fans, and the District for decades to come.”
As important as the stadium itself is, the communities around it and what would happen to them was a big talking point when it came to voting for the move the past summer. The project will include at least $1.1 billion in public funds, but the money will not be used for the construction of the stadium itself, according to the agreement approved by the DC Council.
Community members had a chance to meet with planners back in October to discuss how the project will impact surrounding neighborhoods and what they hope will be including in the final design.
According to the Commanders press release, HKS plans to add 5,000 to 6,000 new homes which will also include 1,500 to 1,900 affordable homes. They also plan to preserve the Fields at RFK, build new youth sport facilities, create more opportunities for hotels and retail stores to move in, and dedicate 30% of the site to green spaces.
The next phase of the project includes mapping out a concept and design, hosting community meetings and receive feedback from local leaders. These local meetings are scheduled for November and December but a date has not been set.
Construction is set to start in the spring of 2027 and completion is set for 2030.