Full throttle vision - motorsports and more.

Upland Architects' Motorsports Event Center concept envisions a dynamic, multi-use venue along Interstate 85 in North Carolina, designed primarily to host motorsports events in addition to a wide range of high-volume public events. Developed as part of Upland’s Unbuilt Architecture portfolio, this project highlights our studio's ability to design vibrant, high-capacity environments grounded in versatility and user experience.

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Originally conceived for a U.S. Monster Truck League that tours nationally, the centerpiece of the design is a dramatic prefabricated steel truss dome housing an indoor dirt track. The oval-shaped, half-mile dirt and clay track features steeply banked turns to create an exhilarating racing experience for drivers and spectators alike. Beyond motorsports, the facility was designed to flexibly host concerts, car shows, camper expos, and more, maximizing its year-round potential.

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The 15,000-seat venue is flanked by continuous clerestory public spaces on both sides of the dome, offering thoughtfully integrated amenities including restrooms, concession stands, full-service bars, pop-up retail areas, and box offices. These amenities were designed to enhance circulation and guest comfort, ensuring a vibrant event-day experience.

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Attention to site design was equally critical. The expansive parking areas were tailored to support tailgating and outdoor car shows, with tree-lined green spaces between parking rows, high-end lighting systems, and strategic circulation routes that prioritized safety and efficiency. Enhanced landscaping helped soften the hardscape environment, creating an inviting arrival experience.

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Architecturally, the facility’s exterior bridges industrial strength and local character. The dome’s steel structure is accented with grey brick cladding, navy blue standing seam metal siding, and expansive, black-framed industrial glazing—balancing durability with a welcoming civic presence. Multiple grand entrances were placed strategically across three major parking zones, ensuring intuitive access and efficient crowd movement during large events.

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The Motorsports Event Center remains a proud part of Upland Architects' Unbuilt Architecture portfolio—a bold concept combining entertainment, community, and innovation into one unforgettable destination.