Populous’ James Pearce joins the #SAS26 keynote line-up to reveal why overlay design must begin long before event day.
Today we announce James Pearce, Senior Principal & Senior Architect at global architecture firm Populous, as the latest keynote speaker confirmed for TheStadiumBusiness ASIA 2026.
Keynote Speaker
James Pearce
Senior Principal & Senior Architect, Populous
James leads Populous’ APAC Events & Overlay team and has spent 20 years working across complex sport and entertainment projects.
His experience includes the Jamsil Sports MICE Complex in Korea, International Convention Centre Sydney, Philippine Arena in Manila, Datong Sports Park in China, KL Sports City in Malaysia and the Los Angeles Convention Centre.
In Hong Kong, James served as Project Leader for Kai Tak Sports Park, giving him a direct connection to the landmark precinct at the centre of this year’s gathering.
At #SAS26
The importance of overlay design in creating an unforgettable event long before the doors open
Beyond the hero buildings
When we think about an Olympic and Paralympic Games or another major sport and entertainment event, attention naturally falls on the stadiums and arenas. However, the experience is also shaped by everything surrounding those hero buildings.
Overlay architecture integrates temporary elements with existing venues and infrastructure to create fully operational environments for world-class sport and celebration.
When considered from the outset, overlay design can shape how people move, interact and engage across an entire site.
James will demonstrate how overlay architecture can be approached with the same design rigour and creativity as permanent architecture, while responding to the cultural, experiential, commercial and operational requirements of each event.
Why overlay cannot be an afterthought
James will examine why collaboration between architects, wayfinding specialists and event management professionals must begin early in the planning process.
Working together allows these teams to activate not only the venues themselves, but also the spaces between them that play an essential role in connecting people to place.
The keynote will explore:
- How overlay shapes movement and engagement across an event site
- The importance of collaboration between design and event teams
- How temporary elements can support adaptability and long-term venue legacy
- The role of culture, community and experience in major-event planning
Drawing on Populous’ experience across Olympic and Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games and other global sports events, James will explore how overlay can improve venue adaptability, strengthen event legacy and extend the lifecycle of temporary elements beyond their original purpose.
For venue owners, operators, architects, event organisers and host cities, this keynote will offer a different way of thinking about the complete event environment and the work required to make it unforgettable.
Join James Pearce at #SAS26
Meet James alongside hundreds of senior venue executives from across the region at TheStadiumBusiness ASIA 2026, taking place in Hong Kong from 13–15 October 2026.
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