Cincinnati Open - Realizing A Vision
Transforming the Cincinnati Open into a world-class “tennis in the park” experience that sets a new benchmark for tournament venues everywhere.
We take great pride in witnessing the seamless integration of visionary design and meticulous execution, exemplified by the recent renovations at the Cincinnati Open tennis facility in Mason, Ohio. These enhancements not only elevate the aesthetic appeal but also significantly improve the functionality of the venue, surpassing our expectations. Our team of Landscape Architects had the privilege of attending one of the weekly sessions, providing a unique opportunity to observe the world's premier tennis players in action while experiencing firsthand the transformed campus and state-of-the-art facilities. The renovated complex successfully hosted over 285,000 enthusiastic spectators during the two-week period, demonstrating its capacity to deliver an exceptional fan experience. This project underscores our commitment to creating dynamic, engaging environments that blend innovation with practicality, setting new standards for sports venue excellence.
Photo credit: Sam Greene, The Enquirer, The Athletic article
The late summer afternoons in the Ohio River Valley can become intensely hot, and the day we attended the event was no exception, with temperatures soaring into the lower 90s and humidity levels making the air feel even more oppressive. Historically, tennis fans at this event faced challenges due to the outdoor environment, with asphalt-paved plazas and open spaces significantly increasing surface temperatures by nearly ten degrees across most of the campus. Shade was scarce, limited mostly to a few sycamore trees in the food and beverage area or the shady north side of the massive Center Court structure, located at the heart of the campus. Having attended the tournament in previous years, I can attest that it was consistently a scorching experience. Despite the heat, passionate fans flocked to the event, eager to witness top-tier tennis, demonstrating their dedication and resilience. However, this year marked a significant transformation for the campus, coinciding with the staging of the prestigious 1,000-level professional tennis tournament — The Cincinnati Open. The upgrades and improvements not only enhanced the spectators’ experience but also contributed to a more comfortable and engaging environment, elevating the tournament's stature and appeal for both players and fans alike.
Follow these links for more insights from players and spectators:
YouTube: Cincinnati Open Renovation Player Insights
Instagram: First Impressions of the Renovated Cincinnati Open
Photo Credit: Cincinnati Open
Photo credit: Dayton Daily News
Photo credits: Cincinnati Open
In collaboration with Gensler, the lead architect responsible for the master plan and facilities upgrades, MKSK spearheaded the redesign of the site and enhancements to the outdoor spaces across the campus. This transformation reimagined the area from a predominantly asphalt-paved environment into a vibrant, park-like setting, offering a unique "tennis in the park" experience that seamlessly blends recreation with natural beauty. The project included the strategic planting of over 2,000 shade trees, significantly improving the microclimate by reducing urban heat effects. Additionally, the replacement of dark asphalt with lighter-colored concrete not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal but also contributed to a cooler, more inviting atmosphere. These improvements have elevated the campus's visual appeal and cleanliness, fostering a sense of praise and joy for both the players and the fans. The revitalized outdoor environment now serves as a dynamic and welcoming space, enriching the experience of the two-week event and leaving a lasting positive impression for all.
Photo credits: Cincinnati Open
As the MKSK team traversed the campus, we observed visitors engaging in relaxation, laughter, dining, and socializing, all while experiencing the pinnacle of tennis excellence in an environment that is welcoming, comfortable, and visually stunning. The redesigned Commons, featuring a savannah-inspired arrangement of trees, shaded canopies, and ample seating, alongside the new north and south gateway entrances and meticulously landscaped planting zones, exemplifies a remarkable transformation. This reimagining and recalibration of the Cincinnati Open campus has surpassed all expectations. It is gratifying when a vision and strategic plan come to fruition, and the Cincinnati Open now sets a new benchmark for exceptional fan and player experiences, blending world-class sport with an inviting atmosphere that elevates the entire event.
Photo credit: Cincinnati Open
Andy Knight is a Principal at MKSK. As a Design Principal, Andy’s work collectively includes public realm revitalization initiatives, dynamic and productive landscapes, and vibrant public spaces that promote a diversity of social uses and cultural traditions.