Janet Marie Smith led the concept design for the 2018 and 2019 renovations to Citizens Bank Park, the home of the Philadelphia Phillies (the ballpark was initially completed in 2004). The project work included impacts to the Left Field Plaza Entrance and outfield concessions, upgrades to the home clubhouse, the conversion of traditional suites into party suites, and the creation of a 13,000 sq ft kids play area known as “The Yard.” 

The planning and development strategies helped the Phillies script a renovation program that catered to fans of all ages and interests, with amenities to add social, standing room, and gathering spaces plus a double-sided bar serving ice cream and soft drinks to kids on one side paired with full bar service for adults on the other.  In addition, space was cleared along the outside wall which offered fans seated in “Ashburn Alley” a new closer connection to the on-field action with a livelier and engaging viewing atmosphere.

The magic in these renovations, though, lied in the little bits of Philadelphia city history sprinkled throughout the ballpark. From historic signs and baseball card displays in the suites to si-foot-tall World Series trophies and a full-size replica of the Veterans’ Park Liberty Bell, the ballpark renovations reflected the history of the franchise, its city, and its fans.