In June 2021, the Houston Dynamo Football Club, under new ownership, embarked on a mission to revitalize their Shell Energy Stadium. Their primary goals were to withstand the relentless Houston heat while enhancing fan comfort. Plans included a conversion and update of the south end of the stadium into premium seating and transforming the north end into a safe standing area. This marked the beginning of an extensive capital investment project driven by club owner Ted Segal, encompassing all aspects of the organization.

Set to become the first mesh seating stadium in Major League Soccer, Shell Energy Stadium utilizes DreamSeat’s Ovation Ario stadium seats for the upper bowl. In July 2022, the Houston Dynamo Football Club demonstrated its commitment to its loyal fanbase by involving them in the project. Four seating design options, each featuring the iconic "HOUSTON" across the east side grandstands, were presented to fans for selection. Over three weeks, more than 1,500 fans cast their votes, solidifying their active role in shaping the future of the stadium.

The project encountered several challenges, notably the design entailed incorporating unique custom colors, the iconic Wildcatter orange, Space City blue and Raven black found in the Dynamo crest. In addition, with over 22,000 seats to account for, the project required a partner able to deliver a high volume of products within a short lead time. These challenges were efficiently tackled with strategic planning and collaboration, and Serge Ferrari Group was selected as the clear choice for this project.

“Serge Ferrari Group is our preferred mesh supplier,” said Chandler Suprina, President of DreamSeat. “We have relied on the performance and value their products bring to each project and value the track record of success they have established.”

Elevating Fan Comfort with Batyline Iso

Serge Ferrari Group’s Batyline Iso was ultimately selected for DreamSeat’s Ovation Ario stadium seats for its ability to effectively reduce surface temperatures by up to 30 degrees Fahrenheit compared to traditional stadium seats. As the industry standard for outdoor sling furniture for more than 30 years, Batyline Iso offers long life due to extremely simple implementation, excellent resistance to weather conditions and dimensional stability. 

Each Ovation Ario seat was equipped with a cupholder and armrests, greatly enhancing the overall fan experience at all stadium events. Available in a wide range of colors, Batyline Iso seamlessly integrated into the stadium's aesthetic and visual appeal. Custom-selected in the Dynamo team's colors, seating was artfully arranged to create a visually striking display, spelling out "HOUSTON." The aesthetic was not just about appearance but also captured the identity of the city, its diversity and the commitment to providing an unforgettable fan experience.

Collaborative Partnership Unlocks Stunning Fan Experience

The transformation of the Houston Dynamo Football Club Stadium stands as a testament to innovation, fan engagement and the enduring commitment of the Dynamo organization to its supporters. This project has not only elevated the stadium's comfort and appeal but also fostered a deeper connection between the team, the city of Houston and its dedicated fanbase.

“Throughout the Shell Energy Stadium project, Serge Ferrari Group played a crucial role in ensuring its success,” said Suprina. “They efficiently provided the required materials, were accommodating in providing swatches and approvals and consistently ensured that deadlines were met. Their collaborative approach and commitment to timeliness contributed significantly to the project's progress.”