Protective Stadium 

Built into an existing hillside nestled between established neighborhoods and the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex, Protective Stadium was designed to exemplify the heritage of Birmingham and its surrounding context. A 360-degree concourse allows fans to stay connected to the action of the game and energetic atmosphere while circling the stadium and enjoying views of downtown Birmingham. 

Totaling an expansive 835,000 square feet, Protective Stadium was designed to accommodate football, soccer, concerts and other special events, and is home to University of Alabama Birmingham football, the Birmingham Legion of USL Championship soccer, and the Birmingham Stallions of the new United States Football League. 

Thoughtful consideration was put into the selection of colors, materials and the structure of the stadium, including the scoreboard and light towers. Inspiration for the selections was influenced by Birmingham’s industrial heritage and landmarks. The design for Protective Stadium employs the use of red brick and black steel to seamlessly integrate the new building into the city. 

The westside tower has an indoor club and club seating for 1,000. There are two suite levels with a total of 34 suites. The top floor contains a press box for coaching, broadcast and other media. The south endzone has a concourse club, and the north endzone has a “supporter” section for soccer fans during soccer matches, and for students and marching band members during football games. Other features include outdoor party decks, a large entry plaza on the south end, at-grade access on the north end of the concourse, several large multifunctional locker rooms, and enough support space to accommodate a variety of events.

ARCHITECT OF RECORD

Populous

Kansas City, Mo.

ASSOCIATE ARCHITECT

Goodwyn Mills Cawood

Birmingham, Ala.

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