Today, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) unveiled a $350 million 'Reimagination' project for the Scotiabank Arena. This announcement comes as Toronto's attention is now turning to the upcoming seasons for the Maple Leafs and Raptors as the Blue Jays conclude their season (and all-too-brief post-season). The Scotiabank Arena is to undergo a multi-phase renovation, following in the footsteps of the significant renovations that the Rogers Centre, with its first phase to be completed this year.

Entry Gate plan as part of the Scotiabank Arena Reimagination, image courtesy of MLSE

During a media conference and venue tour on October 10, MLSE executives shared insights into the project. Interim President & CEO Cynthia Devine expressed gratitude towards partners and fans, emphasizing the project’s commitment to delivering enhanced experiences for fans. Chief Venues & Operations Officer Nick Eaves highlighted the project's focus on sustainability, stating, "Our team is making informed spending decisions on materials and operations to continue moving the needle on being more sustainable."

The stage for the media conference held on October 10, image by Anthony Teles

The team for the Scotiabank Arena reimagining features design work by Brisbin Brook Beynon Architects and DesignAgency. The renovation includes a complete floor remodel of the Mastercard Executive Suites, which will feature high-end finishes, stone accents, enhanced in-suite technology, convertible accessible seating, and vaulted ceilings.

Seating and some of the food options at the Mastercard Lounge, image by Anthony Teles

The Mastercard Lounge, located at the southwest corner of the 200 Level, is a shared space for members that offers premium views of the court or rink, as well as exclusive dining experiences. The lounge features all-inclusive dining and an interactive Chef's Table, created by Michelin Star trained chefs. Notably, the lounge introduces 'dream seats' — larger and more comfortable seating options for attendees.

Another enhanced experience comes from the significant technological advancement of Amazon's Just Walk Out in two concession marketplaces, Grains and Greens (100 Level) and Molson Market (300 Level). Using image detection, AI, and deep learning techniques, the market allows fans to enter using their credit card, pick up items, and leave without traditional checkout, with the cost charged to their card. Scotiabank is one of the first Canadian venues to offer this seamless and quick experience, enhancing the fan experience.

Presentation of Amazon's Just Walk Out at Grains and Greens, image by Anthony Teles

In collaboration with Sports & The Arts (SATA), the project also celebrates Canada's diversity through art. With over 400 applications received nationwide, 76 artworks were commissioned from 34 artists, including Mark Stoddart and Samantha Woj. These artworks, reflecting Canada’s diverse heritage, including Indigenous and LGBTQ+ communities, narrate the country’s rich history and the world of sports and music.

Artist Mark Stoddart discussing his art piece featuring Dr James Naismith, image by Anthony Teles

Once the 2023-24 seasons for the Maple Leafs and Raptors conclude, the project's second phase will begin. This phase will see a complete renovation of the 100 Level concourse, with eight kiosks being transformed into grab-and-go markets that offer a variety of fresh, local foods.

The 100 Level will also see the expansion of Real Sports Apparel with an additional retail store, a refreshed Hot Stove restaurant on the 200 Level, and the introduction of the Tunnel Club on the Event Level. This exclusive club will offer members a close-up view of players entering the bowl from the locker room, all while dining in a premium restaurant with high-end design just steps away from their seats.

Rendering of the 100 Level renovation presented at the conference, image by Anthony Teles

Looking ahead, subsequent phases will enhance both fan-facing spaces and back-of-house areas for artists and athletes. These enhancements include a complete redesign of the 300 Level, the addition of dedicated artist and talent spaces, and more.

Through these extensive renovations and upgrades, MLSE intends for the Scotiabank Arena to offer an unparalleled experience for fans, artists, and athletes alike, and reinforce Toronto's position as a top destination for sports and entertainment.

UrbanToronto will continue to follow progress on this development, but in the meantime, you can learn more about it from our Database file, linked below. If you'd like, you can join in on the conversation in the associated Project Forum thread or leave a comment in the space provided on this page.

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UrbanToronto has a research service, UrbanToronto Pro, that provides comprehensive data on construction projects in the Greater Toronto Area—from proposal through to completion. We also offer Instant Reports, downloadable snapshots based on location, and a daily subscription newsletter, New Development Insider, that tracks projects from initial application.