This time the firm teamed with Ellerbe Becket Sports Architects with the goal of transforming the stadium into a premiere NFL facility, while preserving the integrity and history of the original structure that had grown to become so hallowed in the hearts of fans. But with the legendary success of the NFL and Packers franchise, so came the demand for still more expansion.Īs part of a sweeping $295 million renovation plan announced in 2000, Somerville once again returned to work on Lambeau Field. Thanks to Somerville’s forward-thinking design, the original bowl was left intact as seating was expanded to 56,263 and the stadium enclosure was completed. This time to expand seating for the stadium, by then renamed Lambeau Field in honor of Packers founder Curly Lambeau. In 1970, team and city officials again called on Somerville. The stadium, originally named City Stadium, made its debut in 1957 to rave reviews– and a rousing Packers victory over the rival Chicago Bears, 21 -17. After carefully studying the stadium at his alma mater, the University of Michigan, Somerville architect, Richard “Gus” Gustafson meticulously planned sightlines that would offer every fan a clear view of the action while creating an intimate experience that would bond fans and players alike. Somerville, the firm and city worked together to select a sloping site that would facilitate the construction of a recessed elliptical bowl. Led by company owner and architect John E.
To realize their vision, they selected the architectural firm, Somerville and so began a winning partnership that would span more than half a century. They pictured a stadium seating 30,000 fans with the flexibility to be easily expanded if the need ever arose. In 1955, Green Bay city leaders announced plans to build a new home for their beloved football team, the Green Bay Packers.
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