Construction crews are putting the finishing touches on a dusty, chalk-filled Spectrum Center, and Billie Eilish fans will be the first to see the completed renovations when the arena reopens Oct. 19.
The Charlotte Hornets hosted a media preview tour Monday to showcase the second phase of the arena’s renovations. The uptown Charlotte project began in May 2024 and is designed to elevate the guest experience for visitors, according to Donna Julian, chief venues officer for Hornets Sports & Entertainment.
“We know that as an organization, we have to have world-class facilities to be a world-class and a premier franchise,” Julian said, “and I think this project is going to get us where we need to go.”
The arena, which celebrates its 20th anniversary in October, is undergoing a two-phase project that will be completed in time for the Hornets’ upcoming 2025-26 NBA season. The total cost of the project is $245 million, and is funded by the city of Charlotte’s tourism dollars, which are collected from taxes on rental cars and hotel rooms.
A lot of work still needs to be done.
There are unpainted walls behind counters, orange cones, visible wires near the ceilings and construction lifts carrying workers to the rafters. Despite the unfinished look, the Hornets and city leaders are looking forward to the results and remain confident the work will get finished on time.
The “Reimagine Spectrum Center” project is a collaboration between the city of Charlotte, the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority, and partners including architect Perkins&Will and construction companies Turner and D.A. Everett. The city owns Spectrum Center, which is operated by Hornets Sports & Entertainment.
What’s new at Spectrum Center
The improvements, based on plans and renderings unveiled in late April, include several key areas:
Belk Concourse — The concourse has been overhauled with modern signage, updated lighting and new flooring. It now features additional restrooms and new gathering spaces, including an east-side bar with a view of the arena.
North and South Districts — New themed areas feature 360-style bars and upgraded dining. The Lunazul North District offers a “modern sophistication” theme, while the South emphasizes “Southern hospitality.”
Seating —The arena has added 1,400 lower-level seats, along with more comfortable and upgraded seating throughout.
Food and Beverage — Expanded grab-and-go markets and new partnerships with local Carolina cuisine vendors will be introduced in partnership with Levy, the arena’s food and beverage partner.
Founders Level — This premium area underwent a complete renovation to offer more high-end options for guests.
Back-of-house — The facilities for teams, performers and crew were improved.
Phase One renovations
The first phase of renovations was completed last summer, with a focus on the Novant Health Suite Level.
The redesign added new hospitality options, including the First Horizon Theater Box, Mini Suites, and a Super Suite. The Event Level was also transformed, including the Inner Circle Club, Courtside Club and Bank of America Hardwood Club.
Additionally, the Uptown Concourse was upgraded with redesigned walkways, expanded food and beverage choices, a new bar area and enhancements to the Dr Pepper Pavilion. A new Belk Light Rail entrance and Evolv screening were also added, allowing for faster, safer and easier entry into the arena.
The season ahead at Spectrum Center in Charlotte
For its first week, the Spectrum Center will host seven events in eight days.
Billie Eilish will kick off the events with her sold-out “Hit Me Hard and Soft Tour” show on Oct. 19 and 20. Stevie Nicks will take the stage on Oct. 21, the actual 20th anniversary of the arena’s opening in 2005.
The Charlotte Hornets will host their season opener on Oct. 22 against the Brooklyn Nets.
Other artists scheduled for the first week include Tate McRae (Oct. 24), Lainey Wilson (Oct. 25), and NBA YoungBoy (Oct. 26).
“You’ve heard me talk about having a lineup that suits our community, and there is something for everybody in those first eight days,” Julian said. “We’re really excited about that.”