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Populous Named Master Architects of OKC Entertainment District

Populous was named master architect for an entertainment district project involved with NBA player Russell Westbrook. Photo credit: Will Crow.

Posted June 2, 2025

Kansas City-based architecture firm Populous has been selected as the master architect for an entertainment district in downtown Oklahoma City.

Echo Investment Capital, Russell Westbrook Enterprises and Robinson Park announced the selection of Populous for the project, which would design entertainment venues connected to the MAPS 4 Multipurpose Stadium, according to a release.

Populous was among seven firms that bid on the project in a national search.

“Selecting Populous as master architect is a big step toward bringing to life our vision for the district,” CEO of Robinson Park, Mark Beffort, said in the release. “Their experience in designing world-class venues will help make this district a standout destination for Oklahoma City, and we’re excited to partner with Echo and RWE to bring this vision forward.”

The entertainment district also gained NBA superstar and Echo investment partner Russell Westbrook as Creative Director for the project. Westbrook played for the Oklahoma City Thunder basketball team from 2008 to 2019.

Headquartered in downtown Kansas City, Populous has designed over 3,500 projects worth more than $60 billion. The firm has over 1,500 employees in 32 global offices across four continents, with regional centers in Kansas City, London, and Brisbane.