Aerial view of HNTB's visionary 18,000-seat arena with Dallas Stars logo, surrounded by cityscape.

HNTB’s Visionary 18,000-Seat Arena for Dallas Stars Sparks New Era in Plano

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Written by Seth Sebastian

2026-08-13

A new home for the Dallas Stars

Architecture studio HNTB has revealed plans for a spectacular 18,000-seat arena in Plano, Texas, destined to be the new home for the Dallas Stars NHL team. This project, known as their visionary 18, is part of a broader “year-round district” development, strategically located along the Dallas North Tollway, approximately 20 miles from the team’s existing base at the American Airlines Center in Downtown Dallas.

Architectural rendering of HNTB's arena for the Dallas Stars in Plano, under blue sky.
HNTB is designing an arena for the Dallas Stars in Plano

Design that’s rooted in identity

The arena’s design features an irregular, modern structure surrounded by mid-rise blocks. HNTB’s chief design officer, Ryan Gedney, emphasized the importance of creating a venue that embodies the spirit of the Dallas Stars and the essence of North Texas. “The most memorable arenas become part of the identity of a city and its people,” Gedney explained, aiming to capture the passion and intensity of hockey through distinctive architecture as envisioned in their plan.

Blueprints showing arena within a wider urban development in Plano.
The arena will be part of a wider development

Integration with community and culture

As the centerpiece of a larger development that includes mid-rise buildings and a prominent office tower, the arena aims to seamlessly blend into the community. This integration is a critical element of HNTB’s strategy. Gedney notes, “Great arenas create unforgettable moments, but the very best become places that communities embrace every day of the year.” Their visionary 18 underscores this community synergy.

The thoughtful design, central to the project, intends to set a new standard for sports venues by fostering a dynamic environment where sports, entertainment, and community engagement create lasting value for fans and the entire region.

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Setting a new benchmark in sports architecture

This project aligns with a growing trend in the U.S., where sports teams are establishing new, state-of-the-art homes. The Kansas City Chiefs, for instance, recently unveiled plans for a 70,000-seat stadium by Manica, while the Washington Commanders are contemplating a colonnaded stadium design by HKS. As part of this movement, their visionary 18 stands out for its architectural boldness and community focus.

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Source: dezeen.com

Frequently asked questions

Where will the new Dallas Stars arena be located?

The new Dallas Stars arena will be located in Plano, Texas, strategically alongside the Dallas North Tollway, approximately 20 miles from the team’s current base at the American Airlines Center in Downtown Dallas.

What is the seating capacity of the new arena for the Dallas Stars?

The new arena for the Dallas Stars will have an 18,000-seat capacity.

Who is the architectural studio behind the Dallas Stars’ new arena?

The architectural studio behind the Dallas Stars’ new arena is HNTB.

What does HNTB aim to capture in the arena’s design?

HNTB aims to capture the passion and intensity of hockey through distinctive architecture, embodying the spirit of the Dallas Stars and the essence of North Texas.