Nationally recognized architecture, planning, landscape architecture, and interior design firm, HCM, has been selected as Design Architect and Architect of Record for the new mixed-use entertainment district adjacent to Neyland Stadium at the University of Tennessee (UT) Knoxville. HCM will provide architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture services across the development. A public-private partnership (P3) between the university, RVX Ventures, Arctos Sports (a business of KKR), and Magellan Development Group, the $288 million project will feature a hybrid condo-hotel overlooking the stadium, restaurants, shops, and event space.
Among a new wave of university sports-anchored developments taking shape nationwide, the project will revitalize underutilized land adjacent to one of the country’s largest SEC football stadiums and introduce a dynamic, mixed-use destination for students, alumni, and visitors. Set against the Tennessee River and Neyland Stadium, the new entertainment district will take its cues from the surrounding landscape and the city’s rich architectural history for a destination that feels connected to the university and rooted in Knoxville.
“Sports-anchored development is an exciting and fast-growing typology, and we’ve been fortunate to build real expertise in this space,” said Frank André, Principal, Design Leader at HCM. “Universities with robust sports programs are looking to transform their athletic campuses, and we’re energized by the opportunity to help bring that vision to life.”
In addition to the condo-hotel property, the district includes 110,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, including exterior plazas, restaurants, live music venues, a new student walk to Neyland Stadium, and an improved greenway, to connect the Tennessee Riverfront to the entertainment district.
The Neyland Entertainment District represents the next chapter in HCM’s work at the intersection of collegiate athletics, hospitality, and urban placemaking. It is on track to open the entertainment district in early 2028 and the condo-hotel in 2029.
ABOUT HCM
HCM is a collaborative design firm working at the intersection of inspiration and impact. Our team is driven by a shared vision to design exceptional spaces that celebrate the power of place and invigorate the communities they anchor. Guided by a process rooted in listening, we partner closely with clients across industries and around the country to uncover opportunities, shape communities, and design environments that leave a lasting legacy.
