Dallas Stars select HNTB to create the future home of hockey in North Texas

PLANO, Texas — The Dallas Stars today announced the selection of HNTB as the lead design firm for the organization’s proposed new arena in Plano, marking an important step toward advancing the team's long-term vision for the future of the franchise in North Texas.

The new arena is envisioned as an intimate and energetic home ice environment that reflects the passion of the Dallas Stars fan base while strengthening the connection between the organization and the communities it serves. Designed as the centerpiece of a broader mixed-use district, the development will create a year-round destination that brings together sports, entertainment, retail and community experiences in a way that extends well beyond game days.

HNTB was selected for its integrated approach to architecture, planning and district design, as well as its long history of creating sports venues that strengthen fan identity and connect seamlessly with surrounding mixed-use environments. The firm's collaborative process and deep understanding of the North Texas community will help shape a destination that reflects the ambition of the Dallas Stars organization and the character of the region.

"We are thrilled to officially announce the selection of HNTB,” said Tom Gaglardi, Dallas Stars owner, governor and chairman. "The wealth of experience and knowledge that their team brings to the table will allow us to create the best arena in the NHL. Many of the premier facilities in professional and collegiate sports were designed by HNTB, and we are excited to begin the process for our new home in Plano.”

Located west of the Dallas North Tollway, the proposed mixed-use development, being advanced with the ownership of The Shops at Willow Bend, includes sports, entertainment, retail, dining and public gathering spaces anchored by a future Dallas Stars arena. The project is envisioned as a year-round destination for the community while strengthening the team’s connection to its North Texas fan base.

“The Dallas Stars have a clear and ambitious vision for a new home that delivers an exceptional experience for fans, players and the broader North Texas community,” said Doug Mann, HNTB corporate president and project executive. “HNTB is committed to bringing the full strength of our sports design practice and our deep local presence to create an arena that is authentic to the Stars, built for Texas hockey and positioned to serve the community for generations.”

HNTB is a leading designer of sports and entertainment destinations, bringing together architects, planners, engineers and technical specialists to create places that elevate the fan experience, strengthen communities and support long-term client success.

"The most memorable arenas become part of the identity of a city and its people," said Ryan Gedney, HNTB chief design officer. "Our goal is to create a home that is unmistakably rooted in the identity of the Dallas Stars, one that captures the passion and intensity of hockey while reflecting the unique character and culture of North Texas. Great arenas create unforgettable moments, but the very best become places that communities embrace every day of the year. By seamlessly integrating the arena with an active, year-round district, we have an opportunity to establish a new benchmark for how sports, entertainment and community come together to create lasting value for fans, the franchise and the region."

About the Dallas Stars

The Dallas Stars are a professional ice hockey team located in Dallas, Texas, that plays in the National Hockey League (NHL). Founded in 1967 as the Minnesota North Stars, the team was part of the NHL’s first wave of expansion franchises and relocated to Texas in 1993. Since moving to North Texas in 1993, the Dallas Stars have played a transformative role in the growth of hockey in the southern United States through grassroots efforts, community involvement and unmatched fan support. Over the last 33 years, the club has made 21 playoff appearances, won nine division titles, captured two Presidents’ Trophies, three conference championships and won the 1999 Stanley Cup.

About HNTB

HNTB shapes shared experiences through purposeful, human-centered design. Guided by client needs and grounded in a balance of creative expression and technical rigor, HNTB delivers award-winning projects across sports, aviation and transportation markets. The firm brings together design, planning and technical expertise to create spaces that clarify movement, elevate the experience and strengthen connections among people and communities. Through an integrated, collaborative approach, HNTB delivers design solutions that perform today and endure over time. Discover HNTB’s Spark at www.hntb.com, or follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook or Instagram.