Treanor Architects

University Tradition

Memorial Stadium on the University of Kansas campus was originally built in 1921 and is the first athletic structure built on a university campus west of the Mississippi River and the eighth oldest collegiate stadium in the nation.  The complete renovation of the stadium enhanced spectator amenities such as the restrooms, concession stands, ticket windows, and concourse areas. New field lighting, sound system, and video board were also added. A new home locker room was included under the seating bowl. Major structural repairs and upgrading of the maintenance needs were a critical design need to maintain this stadium for many years of enjoyment and activities.

The remodeling of the press box expanded the media facilities and added 34 “scholarship suites”. The facility is built with 100 percent cast in place concrete frame.  Fifty-six concrete piers averaging 6-inches around and 30-feet deep provide the base for the new facility. 

The Designers’ goal for the suites was to enhance the game day environment by creating private suites with traditional class and comfort.  Each suite has a gathering area for pre-game entertaining, and once the game begins, the patrons settle into theater chairs with an unobstructed view of the game through wall to wall glass.  High windows are operable to allow enjoyment of the crisp fall air and noise from the crowd.  The Memorial Stadium Scholarship Suites keeps the tradition of the University alive while allowing a spectator environment rarely matched in collegiate football.