Transforming A Century-Old KU Icon Into a Modern Game Day Destination
David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium has served as the heart of Jayhawks football for more than a century. Opened in 1921 as a living memorial to the University of Kansas (KU) students and alumni who gave their lives during World War I, it is one of the nation’s oldest college football venues.
Generations of fans have filled the stands to watch Kansas legends and unforgettable rivalries unfold, making it a landmark of tradition and pride not just for the university, but for the entire Lawrence community. Today, the stadium is undergoing a new era of transformation. Renovations are reimagining the fan experience with updated seating, enhanced accessibility and modern design elements that honor its history while preparing it for the next 100 years.
To bring that vision to life, our team delivered more than 17,000 linear feet of railing in a wide range of styles from glass track rail and reed-patterned drink rail to cable, aisle and picket rail systems. Woven mesh infill adds a distinctive architectural statement to the custom VIP stairs, while anodized aluminum finishes in the bowl and brown-bronze powder coating in the back-of-house areas ensure design cohesion and durability.
The project also required versatile infrastructure. By incorporating SC Pro Risers, the stadium gains a flexible, demountable platform system that supports a variety of seating and event configurations. At the entry points, custom sunshade canopies now welcome fans and staff with protection and comfort, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
These solutions are paired with high-end finishes that elevate the entire fan experience. Fundermax phenolic panels are integrated into drink rails and suite dividers, while Krion solid-surface drink tops give the luxury suites a refined edge. Premium-gauge woven mesh adds an upscale touch to the VIP stairs while complementing the overall design intent.
Beyond materials, design choices also transform the way fans take in the action. The reconfigured seating bowl now places suites up to 80 feet closer to the field, while individual seats gain 50% more space and legroom. New wheat stalk-inspired lighting poles further connect the stadium’s refreshed look to its Kansas roots.
In projects like this, the challenge is balancing legacy with innovation by improving comfort, safety and aesthetics without losing the character that makes it a venue iconic. That’s where Sightline Commercial Solutions comes in. With our ability to deliver custom, turnkey solutions under tight deadlines, we help historic venues like David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium evolve gracefully by blending architectural impact with engineering precision to meet the needs of partners, universities and fans alike.
