The Cincinnati Reds hired MSA Sport in 1999 as the design consultant and owner’s representative for Great American Ball Park, and we continue to work with them as the official architects of the Cincinnati Reds. Today, MSA Sport regularly works on projects in this unique building environment, while providing design input on organization, design features, and incorporating Reds history.
The Bootlegger gives fans the feel of walking into an old-time bar, while also moving some of the concession lines out of the concourse walkway. As referenced by its name, The Bootlegger’s interior is inspired by the speakeasies of the Prohibition era with intricate millwork, tile flooring, and decorative ceiling panels. The open layout creates an inviting space for fans who need a respite from the elements.
The Brewery District features a 72-foot-long bar, informally dubbed “The Long Bar”, that offers over 60 taps of local, regional, and international beers. The lower bar façade is bold, monolithic, cast-in-place concrete with recessed lettering and graphics that contrasts sharply with the warmer, rustic, Sapele wood bar top and exposed live-edge profile.
The Fioptics District delivers a destination with unprecedented views and amenities. With the purchase of a Fioptics District Ticket, fans gain access to traditional ballpark seats and standing drink rails, as well as the Fioptics District Rooftop. The rooftop patio features a bar, buffet, and three tiers of ballpark seating overlooking left field and the Ohio River, as well as lounge furniture and a 15-foot video board.
Below the rooftop is the Fioptics GigaBar, the first full-service, walk-in bar on the View Level, which will have technology powered by Cincinnati Bell Fioptics, including three virtual-reality booths and interactive displays. The spacious walk-in bar, which is open to all fans, features domestic, imported, and craft beers, plus wine and mixed drinks.
In preparation for the 2015 MLB All-Star Game, the Cincinnati Reds charged MSA Sport with the task of breathing new life into the original, 15-year-old Riverfront Club concept. MSA responded by removing a large wall of glass, allowing the sounds of the ballpark to infiltrate the club, and helping to transform the formerly sterile, white-table-clothed interior into premium, tiered seating pods with luxurious custom-designed “thrones”.
The bar and lounge received a makeover as well. Playing upon the history of the ball club, the space was rebranded “The Handlebar” and received new graphics, finishes, custom furniture, and a new handlebar-shaped concrete and decorative metal bar with a matching wood-slatted soffit suspended above. Cutting-edge audio/video technology was then incorporated to create an experience unlike anything in the ballpark.