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Overview
Lenovo Center is transforming Raleigh’s flagship arena into a more connected, fan-centered sports and entertainment destination for the Triangle.
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Opportunity
A beloved arena needed to evolve with modern fan expectations while staying operational for major sports, concerts, and civic events.
For more than 20 years, Lenovo Center has been a cornerstone of the Triangle's sports, entertainment, and community life. As the region continued to grow, the arena had the opportunity to evolve by enhancing the fan experience, improving operations, and introducing new premium amenities while remaining fully active. The renovation also supports the long-term vision for a surrounding mixed-use sports and entertainment district, reinforcing the venue's role as a regional destination and catalyst for growth.
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Why This Matters
01
New Revenue Opportunities
The Lenovo Center renovation creates new premium hospitality offerings, including a multi-purpose event space, bunker suites, and expanded club experiences. These enhancements diversify revenue sources, strengthen long-term financial performance, and increase the venue's competitiveness in a rapidly evolving sports and entertainment market.
02
Elevating the Fan Experience
As audience expectations continue to rise, the arena needed to deliver more engaging and memorable experiences. Reimagined concourses, upgraded premium spaces, and expanded gathering areas create a more comfortable, connected, and authentic destination for fans attending games, concerts, and community events.
03
Catalyzing Raleigh's Growth
Home to the Carolina Hurricanes, NC State Basketball, and major regional events, Lenovo Center is a significant civic asset. Transforming the venue strengthens its role as a regional destination, supports future development opportunities, and positions the arena to serve the Raleigh-Durham community for decades to come.
Every person who comes to this building is going to have a first-class experience to match the top venues in the NHL.” - Brian Fork, CEO, Hurricanes Holdings LLC
Solution
A phased transformation reimagines Lenovo Center's hospitality, concourses, and premium offerings, elevating the fan experience while supporting long-term growth.
Gensler's design strategy for Lenovo Center focuses on creating a more dynamic and flexible venue through a phased transformation. New premium hospitality destinations, including the Lenovo Legends Club and bunker suites, introduce elevated event-level experiences while expanding revenue opportunities. Reimagined concourses, refreshed fan amenities, and an expanded entry sequence improve circulation and comfort throughout the arena. Together, these interventions strengthen operational performance, enhance the guest experience, and position Lenovo Center as a premier destination for sports, entertainment, and community events in the Raleigh-Durham region.
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Related Content
12
Distinct Premium Hospitality Experiences
3%
Increase in Total Capacity
300M
Total Investment
From brief to build: Lenovo Center evolves through a phased transformation that balances immediate fan impact with a long-term vision for a world-class entertainment destination.
To meet evolving expectations for sports and entertainment venues, the design reimagines Lenovo Center's premium hospitality, fan amenities, and public spaces through a phased transformation. New destinations, including the Lenovo Legends Club, bunker suites, and View Bar, create differentiated experiences that appeal to a broader range of guests while supporting revenue growth. Reimagined concourses, expanded arrival sequences, and upgraded amenities improve circulation and operational efficiency throughout the arena. Together, these interventions strengthen the venue's role as a premier regional destination.
Impact
By reimagining the arena experience, Lenovo Center strengthens its role as a regional destination and catalyst for future sports and entertainment development.
Enhanced hospitality, flexible event spaces, and operational improvements position the venue to attract new audiences while serving the community year-round.
What Changed Because of This
01
Enhanced Fan Experience
Reconfigured concourses, upgraded food and beverage offerings, and refreshed gathering spaces create a more comfortable and engaging experience throughout the venue.
02
Expanded Premium Hospitality
New suites, clubs, and premium seating options elevate the guest experience while creating additional revenue opportunities for operators and partners.
03
Future-Ready Destination
Flexible event spaces and operational improvements support a wider range of programming, strengthening the arena's role in the region's evolving entertainment district.
It’s incredible to see the impact this project has already had on the community. The Lenovo Center is such a cherished local landmark. We’re proud to have touched it.
Recognition
Coliseum News
Triangle Business Journal
Sports Business Journal
Team
Project Leadership
FAQ
Where is Lenovo Center located?
Who designed the Lenovo Center renovation?
What upgrades are included?
How does the project benefit Raleigh?
Will Lenovo Center remain in use during construction?
What role does Lenovo Center play in the larger district vision?
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