Philips Arena overhaul details, new visuals revealed

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Amenities will include a bounty of options for Atlantans who want to attend basketball games and do anything but watch basketball

By Michael Kahn Jun 29, 2017, 10:50am EDT

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A large open concourse with bridges and an industrial vibe. — A view of the updated concourse in Philips Arena.

If going to a basketball game to watch basketball seems like an off-putting prospect, the new Philips Arena is hoping to provide plenty of alternatives—and options for multitasking.

At a press conference yesterday, it was revealed that the nearly $200-million overhaul of Philips Arena will be less renovation and more construction of a “completely new arena under the existing roof,” officials said.

The deal, inked last year, will keep the Hawks at Philips Arena until at least 2048.

When the facility reopens for games next year, visitors can expect a slew of new and unique amenities for Hawks fanatics—and for those who aren’t all that interested in basketball.

For those who want to be immersed in the game, a VIP club and bar located at one end of the court will provide access to basically become part of the action. For those with less disposable income, a scoreboard three-times larger than the old one will provide nosebleed ticket holders with a dose of visual pizzazz.

But the action doesn’t stop with just basketball. Atlanta rapper and actor Killer Mike will open a four-chair barber shop overlooking the court, affording fans the opportunity to catch up on some personal grooming mid-game.

For fans of games that use smaller balls, the arena will also feature two Topgolf Swing Suites within the Hawks Meeting and Conference Center. According to the Hawks, each suite will have “Topgolf simulators, HDTVs, and lounge seating inside a high-end suite with luxury amenities,” all with a view of the arena bowl.

The last big announcement focused on one of the dining options that will be available in the new arena. Singer Zac Brown, a Georgia native, will open a Social Club serving up Southern favorites and live music. For basketball games.

Renovations are already well underway, and work should be done before tip-off of the 2018 season.

Meanwhile, just outside Philips Arena, plans are coming together for a billion-dollar, mixed-use entertainment district.