The new Washington Commanders stadium is designed to be more than just a sports venue — it aims to create an open, green urban space in Washington, D.C. that remains active all year round, not only on game days.

Integration with nature

Out of the vast 73-hectare area in Washington, D.C., about 30% will be dedicated to active and passive recreational zones. The architects from OJB decided to cleverly utilize the significant elevation changes, incorporating numerous lawns, groves, walking paths, and squares into the landscape. All these elements will be connected by a continuous promenade that smoothly links the eastern and western sections. Thanks to this layout, the infrastructure around the arena will serve residents year-round.

Arrival plazas will become the main landmark and entrance to the stands, easily recognizable by its characteristic tree plantings and clear signage. Meanwhile, the central element of the entire landscape project is the Festival Plaza, located at 22nd Street Northeast. Described by its creators as the district's front porch, this spot will provide an ideal space for seasonal markets, public sports broadcasts, artistic performances, community events, and traditional fan gatherings before kickoff.

© HKS | The new stadium for Washington Commanders in Washington, D.C. is designed as part of a green urban space, with around 30% of the area dedicated to parks and recreation.

Architects vision and urban character

The concept's creators place great emphasis on making Washington Commanders Stadium an integral part of its surroundings. Jim Burnett, founder of OJB, explained that they are designing the stadium's environment to be an essential part of the Washington park and waterfront experience.

Burnett stated that the goal is to create a public space that will be bustling with life on match days while promoting the community's health and well-being on a daily basis. He envisions a welcoming space for walking, meeting, playing, resting, and celebrating. Ensuring its year-round utility, he promised that everyone will find something for themselves, regardless of the season.

© HKS | The Washington Commanders project includes an open complex with Festival Plaza, integrating the venue into the urban fabric of Washington, D.C..

Investment schedule

The landscape concept completes the vision of the arena itself, the shape of which was revealed in 2026 through a series of visualizations published by the HKS firm. These graphics show the stadium's structure from various perspectives, including from East Capitol Street Northeast and the Whitney Young Memorial Bridge.

The investment process is proceeding according to plan, and the preliminary site development assumptions alongside the building design received official approval from the National Capital Planning Commission on April 2. Construction work is expected to begin in the spring of 2027, with the facility scheduled to open in 2030.