HNTB served as lead design architect and architect of record for Lower.com Field, home to the Columbus Crew, one of the 10 inaugural professional teams that were part of Major League Soccer. The stadium is situated at the terminus of Nationwide Boulevard, a pedestrian-friendly Columbus Street that connects major sports venues like Nationwide Arena, Huntington Ballpark and Lower.com Field to the Arena District. Lower.com Field anchors the future Astor Park development, which will feature as much as 150,000-SF of commercial and office space along with 440 residential units, including 20% set aside as affordable housing. The new neighborhood will also feature a new Riverfront Park, providing recreation amenities and trail access.

Influenced by the vibrancy and diversity of Columbus’ urban neighborhoods, the stadium boasts four unique stands, each with its own features and character. The supporter’s “Nordecke” safe-standing section in the north is designed to be the steepest in MLS, along with two elevated patio decks and a beer garden for 3,356 of Columbus Crew’s faithful supporters. The 5,000-SF pub-style restaurant near the primary entry will offer open views to the entrance plaza and Columbus’ vibrant downtown skyline.