Global architecture firm Populous has been appointed to provide lead design services for the P-9 Arena Project in Frankfurt, marking a significant milestone in the development of what is set to become one of Germany’s premier sports and entertainment destinations.
The appointment follows SSF’s selection of Populous, with the firm now leading the initial planning stages of the state-of-the-art, multi-purpose arena. Designed to host major sporting events, concerts and live entertainment, the venue aims to deliver high operational performance while placing sustainability, functionality and visitor experience at the forefront.
Populous Advances Frankfurt’s P-9 Arena
Explaining the vision behind the project, Moritz Schneider, Managing Director of SSF, emphasized the importance of establishing a strong design foundation from the outset. “Our ambition is to deliver an arena that performs exceptionally throughout its operational life. Achieving this requires a planning approach that prioritizes quality, functionality and efficiency from the very beginning. Populous brings outstanding international arena expertise, and we are confident this experience will be a major asset in the successful delivery of the project.”
The appointment further strengthens Populous’ growing portfolio of internationally recognized arena projects. The practice will draw on its global experience in designing world-class sports and entertainment venues to create a destination that serves both Frankfurt and the wider region.
Commenting on the commission, Declan Sharkey, Global Director and Senior Principal at Populous, said, “We are proud to have been appointed to provide lead design services for the exciting P-9 Arena Project in Frankfurt. This will be a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose venue that will bring the best of sport and entertainment to the city. We look forward to bringing our global design expertise to create a world-class sustainable venue that enhances the fan and user experience for every single visitor.”
Next Phase of Planning
Working in close collaboration with SSF, the project management team and specialist consultants, Populous will now begin the next stage of planning. The design team will develop the conceptual and technical foundations for the arena in accordance with HOAI Service Phases 1 and 2.
This work will establish the functional performance specification for the project and will form the basis of the procurement process for the arena’s design-and-build contract, scheduled to begin in autumn 2027. Under this procurement model, a single contractor will be responsible for both the detailed design and construction of the P-9 Arena.
