Sphere at The Venetian, A Structural Genome

Feb
20

Sphere at The Venetian, A Structural Genome

Steve Reichwein, Severud Associates Consulting Engineers, PC

3:30 p.m., February 20, 2025   |   136 DeBartolo Hall

Sphere at the Venetian is an 18,000-seat state-of-the art multimedia venue in Las Vegas containing the world’s highest resolution LED screen (engulfing the entire seating bowl) and Audio Beam Forming Technology, both of which deliver a uniquely immersive experience for showgoers. Additionally, the exosphere is fully clad in about 60 miles of LED puck strands, which fully illuminates the 600,000 square-feet exterior envelope and allows for advertising, as well as the enhancement of any outdoor experience. The 515-foot diameter semi-spherical venue structure is entirely enclosed within the exosphere, which itself is the largest spherical structure on Earth, rising some 366-feet from its foundations.

The presentation will focus on the design and construction of the venue’s main superstructure, dome roof, suspended grillage system, and the exosphere, with particular emphasis on how the use of parametric design, structural steel, and cast-in-place concrete enabled the construction of this venue and its unique aspects.

Upon obtaining an integrated MAE/BAE degree in Architectural Engineering from the Pennsylvania State University, Steve Reichwein joined Severud Associates as a structural engineer in 2009 and is currently a principal of the firm.

Steve has developed vast knowledge and experience in parametric design and modeling utilizing innovative techniques and geometric base three-dimensional parametric software, such as Rhinoceros 3D, Grasshopper, Revit, and Dynamo. Additionally, Steve has vast experience with integration between geometric based three-dimensional parametric software and finite element structural analysis software, such as SAP, ETABS, and RAM Structural System. Steve has applied this experience to many projects with structural complexity, such as Sphere, JFK Terminal 6, and TSX Broadway.

Steve Reichwein

Steve Reichwein,
Severud Associates Consulting Engineers, PC

Steve is actively involved in professional organizations, where he currently serves on the board of directors as treasurer for SEAoNY as well as the ASCE 24 Committee on Flood Design. In addition to his active participation with professional organizations, Steve regularly volunteers to conduct lectures and webinars at various institutions, including his alma mater Penn State. He also volunteers with CANStruction and has run the NYC Marathon in support of the NYRR Team for Kids charity.