Working with Tātaki Auckland Unlimited and Auckland Stadiums, Buchan helped shape the vision for the venue from the options study through concept design, consenting, construction and completion. The project repositions the site as a multi-modal venue that supports significant sporting, music and cultural events while building on the unique qualities of the existing venue.

The venue operates in two distinct modes. During summer, it functions as a major outdoor concert and festival venue targeting events up to 30,000 people. Outside the concert season, it converts into a broadcast-quality boutique sports stadium accommodating up to 5,000 spectators.

Central to the design approach was creating the infrastructure, amenity and operational requirements needed to make both venue modes work efficiently, enabling Western Springs Bowl to operate as both a concert venue and boutique sports stadium. Permanent and semi-permanent infrastructure reduces the cost and complexity of hosting major concerts.

Key interventions include a semi-permanent stage and marquee slab, open-air VIP booths, refurbishment of the VIP lounge as one of two hospitality spaces, event access stairs, and safety and amenity upgrades. These elements enable the venue to transition efficiently between sporting and entertainment uses, while enhancing the experience for patrons, performers, athletes and operators.

With committed sporting and concert milestones driving the programme, Buchan worked as a trusted partner alongside the client and project team to resolve challenges and maintain momentum through an intensive four-month construction programme.