The ballpark credited with launching baseball's current architectural trend is Camden Yards in Baltimore. It was built, as were many of the game's early 20th century classics, to fit into a square block or finite parcel of land, as opposed to a wide-open suburban space surrounded by an ocean of parking. Most importantly, it was designed and built with only purpose -- as a showcase for baseball.
During the mid- and late-'90s when the Orioles still featured ironman Cal Ripken as the centerpiece of a strong lineup, Camden Yards frequently sold out. Out of town visitors instantly became aware of the difference between a ballpark and a multi-purpose stadium. Overnight, the 1960s-'70s generation of Shea, Busch, Riverfront, Three Rivers and Veterans Stadiums and the Oakland Coliseum became dinosaurs. Teams began floating ideas for new parks using the "retro" concept of Baltimore's neo-classic.
With seats hugging the field and angled toward the action., the intimacy of the park evoked memories of Brooklyn's storied Ebbets Field. The restored warehouse building just beyond the right field fence is one of the park's signature features. An inviting target to left-handed sluggers, its presence underscores the connection of field and city.
Camden Yards has proven to be a trend-setter by focusing on the fan experience -- giving ample to reason to be there and not just tune in. A field of dreams inside the city limits.
The ballpark credited with launching baseball's current architectural trend is Camden Yards in Baltimore. It was built, as were many of the game's early 20th century classics, to fit into a square block or finite parcel of land, as opposed to a wide-open suburban space surrounded by an ocean of parking. Most importantly, it was designed and built with only purpose -- as a showcase for baseball.
During the mid- and late-'90s when the Orioles still featured ironman Cal Ripken as the centerpiece of a strong lineup, Camden Yards frequently sold out. Out of town visitors instantly became aware of the difference between a ballpark and a multi-purpose stadium. Overnight, the 1960s-'70s generation of Shea, Busch, Riverfront, Three Rivers and Veterans Stadiums and the Oakland Coliseum became dinosaurs. Teams began floating ideas for new parks using the "retro" concept of Baltimore's neo-classic.
With seats hugging the field and angled toward the action., the intimacy of the park evoked memories of Brooklyn's storied Ebbets Field. The restored warehouse building just beyond the right field fence is one of the park's signature features. An inviting target to left-handed sluggers, its presence underscores the connection of field and city. 
Camden Yards has proven to be a trend-setter by focusing on the fan experience -- giving ample to reason to be there and not just tune in. A field of dreams inside the city limits. 
Comments
Tremendous job with your blog. I love the photos. Keep up the great work here and on the FAN.
Kevin Canessa
Fords, N.J.