My vision for a future Reilly Center, home to countless unforgettable moments in St. Bonaventure Basketball history, explores ideas for a transformative renovation. These renderings showcase an ambitious concept that could connect the entire lower bowl with four corner sections, introduce captivating design elements, and enhance the overall fan experience. With a keen focus on unifying the facility, these renderings depict an arena that seamlessly blends functionality, aesthetics, and the rich legacy of the institution.
Enhancing the Lower Bowl:
The concept aims to modernize the lower bowl of the Reilly Center, providing an immersive experience for fans. The addition of four balcony-like corners, each featuring 44 seats, creates a more aesthetically pleasing look and dynamic atmosphere, while ensuring no seat is too far from the action.
This would add premium seats and provide lucrative sponsorship opportunities. To reflect the school's prideful colors, the seats will transition from blue in the lower bowl and red in the upper section to the alluring brown that reflects the university’s ties to the Franciscan heritage.
Unveiling a Vibrant Cafe and Shopping Experience:
The side opposite the Hall of Fame would be transformed into a lively café and merchandise space. This area would not only cater to the culinary needs of fans but also serve as a social hub. With drink kiosks, a food station, and a bar, spectators could indulge in a variety of refreshments during events (duh!). Adjacent to the café, a large gift shop would offer a wide array of merchandise, allowing visitors to take home a piece of the Reilly Center experience.
Consolidating Banners and Honoring Legends:
This vision includes consolidating rafter banners, creating a visually striking display of the institution's athletic achievements. A new ring of honor would find its place above the Hall of Fame suite, paying tribute to the all-time greats who have graced the Reilly Center. This elevated position would symbolize their extraordinary contributions to the school's athletic legacy, instilling a sense of pride in current and future athletes.
Emphasizing Accessibility and Standing Room:
In line with a commitment to inclusivity, this concept incorporates ample ADA seating at the top of the lower bowl--across the sideline and at the top of the Hall of Fame endzone. Standing room areas would be integrated into the arena's current capacity of over 5,000 seats. This feature will allow fans to experience games in a unique and energetic environment.
Seamless Connectivity and Convenient Facilities:
The upper areas on the sidelines would be seamlessly connected to the new state-of-the-art practice facility on one side (in the lot between the Reilly and Swan Centers) and a parking garage on the other (in the lot between the Reilly and Richter Centers). This strategic positioning ensures easy access for players, staff, and spectators alike. By fostering a cohesive relationship between the Reilly Center and the surrounding facilities, fans would enjoy a seamless game-day experience.
Fluid Concourses and Uniting Spaces:
This Reilly Center vision aims to create a harmonious and maneuverable environment for all attendees. The concourses are thoughtfully designed to provide ample areas for gathering, socializing, and watching games. The fluid layout could eliminate disjointed sections, enhancing the overall flow within the facility. These upgrades are intended to foster a sense of community, expand ADA compliance, and facilitate a more immersive fan experience.
These renderings for the Reilly Center's interior renovation paint a vivid picture of an arena and athletics department poised for greatness. With a focus on unifying the space, enhancing fan experience, and honoring the institution's storied past, the project promises to breathe new life into this great college basketball venue.
These upgrades could undoubtedly provide a captivating atmosphere for spectators, athletes, and visitors alike. It would build for a future where the love of the game and the pride of the school converge in one extraordinary facility.
Special thanks to Keith Lewis for his help with the 3D modeling learning curve, specifically his help with the rendering process.