The difference between the old Michigan Stadium and the new one is most obvious when looking at the stadium’s press box. The once grand, streamlined structure is swallowed by the new massive western addition. Think the Imperial star destroyer swallowing the rebel starship in the opening scene of Star Wars.

The renovation/expansion of Michigan Stadium is starting to visibly take hold this season, one year before the $226 million project is set for completion.

The two luxury-box sections on the east and west (non-scoreboard) sides promise to become the defining features of the new Michigan Stadium. While the massive bowl defined the historic site for 82 years, the two columns will do that for future generations. They are much bigger and more imposing in real life than they appeared in architectural renderings, however, the streamlined design of the metal sections are a nice contrast to the rest of the stadium.

The stadium continues to become more fan friendly with the renovations. There is more space for fans to maneuver thanks to two levels on the east and west sides and more much-needed shade provided both inside and outside of the stadium bowl. The bathrooms are much improved with lots of individual waterless urinals and sinks, a big step up from the community troughs of the old stadium. Now if they would only find a way to give patrons more elbow room in general seating.

What the stadium has in efficiency and ergonomics it loses in the architectural details that often define classic historic structures like Michigan Stadium. An ominous sea of bricks washes over most of the buildings at ground level. Couldn't the university spend a few more bucks on some more limestone, reliefs and other sculptural accents? The lack of public art or design associated with the project makes good the argument for a Percent for Arts program.

Writer: Jon Zemke