Similarities Between New Bucks Arena's Design and Bel Air Cantina has Milwaukee Talking

The Bucks have released new renderings of the new arena that have some comparing it to the Bel Air Cantina restaurant located at 1935 North Water Street. 

Bel Air Cantina said on its' website the design of the restaurant includes a roof that looks like an ocean wave. 

"We love the new design, and if the Scott Kindness designed building was an inspiration, more power to them. We are all inspired by our surroundings-the people in our lives, art, architecture and great design. Looks like the Bucks have a real winner on their hands," said Bel Air Cantina.

The new arena's exterior design was inspired by "Milwaukee’s proud architectural heritage and bold outlook, coupled with the region’s natural environment of rivers, lakes and forests," according to the Bucks release.

RELATED LINK: Bucks Release New Renderings

The Bucks said the hand-crafted zinc patina exterior, punctuated by nodes of glass to highlight activity within, will create an iconic architectural image that will anchor the surrounding development.

The Bucks tapped Populous last year to lead a group of prominent global, national and local architects including Wisconsin-based firms Eppstein Uhen and HNTB for the new arena and master plan of the entire development.

“The hand-crafted zinc and glass exterior wraps the energy of a multi-purpose arena full of social gathering spaces and a new public plaza extends the development as a year-round catalyst for the transformation of downtown Milwaukee,” said Brad Clark, senior principal at Populous. “Inspired by the natural beauty of Wisconsin’s rivers, lakes and forests, this new Wisconsin landmark will stand out as an iconic addition to the cityscape and seamlessly connect with surrounding neighborhoods.