Populous to design Kansas City Chiefs new practice facility

Article posted by Coliseum, July 30^th, 2026

Image: Coliseum GSVA

The NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs have picked Populous as the lead design architect for the club’s new practice facility and headquarters in Olathe, Kansas, which is set to open in 2031.

The Chiefs said that as the project’s principal design partner, Populous will lead the effort to create a cohesive architectural and workplace design fulfilling the organization’s goals and operational requirements.

This includes designing for the needs of the coaching staff, players, and football operations departments, planning for the club’s long-term business goals, and delivering an upgraded employee experience.

They will advise and guide club leadership in decision making across architecture, interiors, public spaces, sustainability, and stakeholder experience.

Set to open ahead of the 2031 football season, the Chiefs new $300 million practice facility and headquarters – as well as an associated mixed-use development – will be located on approximately 155 acres near the intersection of College Boulevard and Ridgeview Road in Olathe.

The Kansas City Chiefs are a professional American football team based in Kansas City, Missouri (US). The Chiefs compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a Member of the American Football Conference (AFC) West Division.

The Chiefs play at the 76,416-seat Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, United States. They plan to build a new $3 billion domed stadium in Kansas City, Kansas (US) boasting 70,000-seat capacity and a translucent roof with an expected opening in 2031.

Chiefs President Mark Donovan said: “Populous has long been a leader in designing world-class sports, convention, event, and entertainment venues, and we’re excited to partner with them on the new day-to-day home for our team and staff in Olathe.

“Throughout the selection process, Populous demonstrated a clear understanding of the unique needs of a modern NFL franchise and the people who support it every day.

“Their expertise and vision make them the ideal partner to create a headquarters that enhances our football operations, supports our growing business, and advances our ambition of becoming The World’s Team. We look forward to advancing the design and sharing our vision and plans with Chiefs Kingdom.”

In addition to the team headquarters, they will also support the master plan design of the on-site mixed-use development, focusing on the layout, development phasing, transportation and pedestrian circulation needs, as well as the visitor experience.

They will be joined by Burns & McDonnell who was previously announced as the owner’s representative for this project.

Sherri Privitera, Senior Principal with Populous, said, “Populous is honored to design the Kansas City Chiefs’ new global headquarters and training facility, a high-performance home shaped around the daily experience of players, coaches, and staff.

“This facility will reflect the caliber of the Chiefs’ brand, culture, and championship standard while creating an environment where the team can continue to pursue excellence.”

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