New renderings reveal Capital One Arena's modern upgrades
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The new facade viewed from 7th and F Streets NW. Rendering courtesy of Monumental Sports & Entertainment
New renderings of a modernized Capital One Arena were released on Thursday, a project that's expected to be completed by the Washington Wizards and Capitals' 2027-28 season.
Why it matters: The designs show a fresh upgrade to the 27-year-old arena's facade, plus interior enhancements that will provide athletes more space and fans additional views of the action.
Zoom in: Construction will span six phases over three years, Monumental Sports & Entertainment said in a ceremonial groundbreaking announcement.
- The current phase will have minimal disruptions, starting with projects such as elevator pit installations.
- Construction will ramp up in the summer with work including new locker rooms, a family lounge for athletes, and initial tweaks to fan seating.
- Major exterior changes will take place in phase four, in the summer of 2026. You can see more renderings below:
What they're saying: "The arena will be a marvel of modern design and technology, the intersection of style and comfort and a futuristic and first-class fan experience from street to seat," Ted Leonsis, the founder and CEO of Monumental Sports, said in a statement.
Inside, there will be additions to the grand pavilion and upgrades to concessions and suites, expected to begin construction in summer 2026.
New premium spaces include The Vault suites, accessible through a private lobby with seating up to 20. "Each suite will offer an all-inclusive menu with a multi-course meal available for all events plus beer, wine, and cocktails," Monumental says.
- Meanwhile, another exclusive space will be the United Globe Club, holding more than 800 guests. Capitals and Wizards VIP seat-holders will have access to complimentary drinks.
- Those with tickets for Wizards Courtside Row AAA and Capitals Row A seats can get into the United Globe Lounge (max 150 guests). It will be "one of the most spacious, luxurious premium hospitality experiences in any arena nationwide," Monumental says.
