The folks behind the SoDo Arena that will hopefully be the new home of the Seattle Sonics one day soon have released some preliminary interior designs for the first time. If you're a Sonics fan and are in public or are seated near others while looking at these renderings, please control yourself. This is basically porn for you.
They also lay out some of the interesting features they're working on for the yet-to-be created basketball mecca.
Improved Viewing Angles: The creation of the Sonic Rings and resulting ability to significantly increase steepness of the lower bowl, results in MARKEDLY improved sight lines for all seating categories Reduced stratification between seating levels: Creating a more vibrant, festive, and social experience in the upper levels and giving typically premium seating amenities to all of our fans
Significant Flex Capacity: In addition to seating for over 2,000 patrons, the design of the Sonic Rings allows for significant incremental standing room capacity so we can "flex up" for the big game or "flex down" for more intimate events
Increased Intimacy, Energy... and Noise: We believe that pushing the entirety of the seating bowl closer to the court and having 2,000-4,000 fans literally overhanging the game not only creates the most intimate venue in the NBA, but will also provide you with the opportunity to create the loudest, most energetic atmosphere in yet another pro sport—or better yet two!
More Cost Effective and Sustainable Building: This introduction of the Sonic Rings and resulting compression of the seating bowl significantly reduces the roof spans — which makes for a more cost-effective and sustainable building
As we await more info, check out this 360-degree view of the arena design and keep your hands where we can see them.
· SEATTLE? LET'S MAKE SOME NOISE! [Sonics Arena]
· All SoDo Arena Coverage [Curbed Seattle]