US-based National Basketball Association (NBA) franchise Milwaukee Bucks has revealed detailed plans for the development of a new sports and entertainment district in Milwaukee.

The Bucks are hoping to establish a 60,000sq ft “live entertainment block” – anchored by a 17,000-seat indoor arena – to rejuvenate the city’s Park East corridor. The total cost of the project is expected to reach US$1bn (€942m, £682m).

Speaking at a press conference yesterday (9 April), Bucks president Peter Feigin said the vision is to create an arena designed for maximum flexibility and year-round use – supported by a dynamic entertainment district serving as a destination.

“We’re not just trying to build a new home for the Milwaukee Bucks, but create a 365-day attraction for Wisconsin residents that will help revitalize downtown Milwaukee,” Feigin said.

“We’re excited to share this glimpse of our vision for the future as we continue to work with our local and state partners to arrive at a viable plan.

This collective effort will create a ripple effect of growth, development and transformation for the entire community and region.”

The design team for the project is lead by Populous and includes a group of prominent global, national and local architects – including HNTB and Eppstein Uhen.

Brad Clark, senior designer at Populous, said: “These early conceptual renderings represent the owners’ vision to create a world-class facility and year-round destination that will revitalize downtown Milwaukee and spur growth and development throughout the region.

“We envision this dynamic entertainment experience as one that could seamlessly connect to the greater Milwaukee community. The goal is to design a lasting symbol for all of Wisconsin, pairing the crafted scale of Milwaukee’s architecture and innovative spirit with the natural beauty of the state.”

Populous’ design for the arena evokes Wisconsin’s natural beauty and Milwaukee’s rich heritage of industry and craftsmen, with expressive structure, transparency and fluid forms inspired by the rivers, lakes and forests of the region.

A diverse material palette will be used to create warmth and colour, reflecting the region’s natural beauty. Selectively placed glass and moments of transparency throughout the building open views from within to Milwaukee’s skyline.