MGA&D recently celebrated their 50th anniversary and in honor of the National Football League celebrating 50 years of the Super Bowl, we reviewed our portfolio through the lens of football and found some striking parallels to the NFL’s rich history. Join us in revisiting a half century of winning sports and design:
Iconic Presence
MGA&D extensively researches local culture to identify solutions that are not only functional and pragmatic, but that are eye catching and leave an indelible mark in the minds of the public. Like Broadway Joe, wrapped in his signature fur, MGA&D shrouded the Washington Monument in a distinctive and memorable scaffolding enclosure during a major renovation project in the late 1990’s. The scaffolding was so memorable, that following the 2011 earthquake that rocked the nation’s capital and damaged the Washington Monument, a petition was circulated to have the scaffolding put up again. There are talks of having it become a permanent installation in Pittsburgh.
Flexibility & Agility
MGA&D balances the experiential elements of our design with the aesthetic details. Architecture, for us, has always been about the idea of ‘placemaking’. One of the most important aspects of placemaking for MGA&D has always been agility and flexibility. The Panthers’ Cam Newton is known for his quick reflexes, a light touch and nimble feet that continuously allow him to adapt to changing circumstances. MGA&D’s designs not only addresses each clients’ current requirements, but are programmed to allow future flexibility, allowing them to evolve as the client’s need evolve.
Cam Newton, Corporate Communal Space
Context & Evolution
Just as the game of football has evolved (remember when there was no instant replay?), MGA&D’s design approach has continued to evolve over time. Our goal is to design smarter, healthier, greener buildings. Of course, this means we never forget our roots in humanistic design with a distinctive appearance. The Wounded Warrior Home Project was designed with the goal to improve the quality of life for the increasing number of disabled service men and women returning to active duty. These 3,000 square homes serve as a model for new accessible homes across the country and have spurred a national dialogue about the importance of barrier-free design for all.
Vince Lombardi, Wounded Warrior Home
Memorable Spaces
Creating memorable spaces, whether they be in the public realm, or simply a shared space in a private environment, are of primary importance in the design choices that drive MGA&D projects. Concepts such as plaza architecture, the urban living room, commissioned art, and an element of the spectacular serve primary roles in the master planning and programming work of the firm. MGA&D strives to design experiential spaces that allow for unforgettable encounters with the built environment. Sports Authority Field at Mile High, home to this year’s Super Bowl participants, the Denver Broncos shares a distinct and delightful sense of place and experience that mirrors that of the MGA&D designed Aviation Museum and Resort in Malaysia.
Super Bowl Celebration, Conceptual Seaport
Leadership & Excellence
Peyton Manning, Quarterback for the Denver Broncos, is known for his perseverance and commitment to excellence. MGA&D has been recognized as a leader in design excellence that has resulted in the creation of thought-provoking, carefully considered projects. Environmental consciousness, context-sensitive design and accessibility are not “buzzwords” to us but are the foundation that drives the creative efforts of the firm.
Peyton Manning, Denver Central Library
The Future
Congratulations to the NFL on their 50th Anniversary. The Super Bowl has become a much loved annual event. Much like the players of the Super Bowl both 50 years ago and today, MGA&D is focused on the creation and execution of a superior game plan, one in which all the details have been reviewed, drawn up, practiced and worked through until all that is left to do is deliver a winning design.
Superbowl 50, Green Living Concept Design