fifA world cup stadium
competitions
sport
client:
eThekwini Municipality
location:
King’s Park Precinct, Durban
joint venture :
(international architects)
COX; ARUP Sport
(local architects)
Paton Taylor Architects; ZAI; DGIT
The revolutionary design of Durban’s new ‘eco-stadium’ for the FIFA world cup : 2010 was shortlisted as 1 of 6 consortia in a global joint venture.
As part of the ‘stadium ecology’ concept, a new cladding structure and technology was conceived.
Rather than a symbolic cladding, the new outer layer provides a series of functional and energy related outcomes, thereby allowing for a full integration between structure, architecture and environment. The external skin of the building would act as a living, breathing element.
The structural solution for the canopy was equally revolutionary in design. A unique self-supporting shell comprised of modular elements utilises less steel than conventional enclosures. The parametric design of the structure resulted in a 25% saving on the steel
A FIFA STADIUM ON DURBAN BEACH SAND DUNES
Development Process
The global, collaborative project was developed under the name ‘Mzantsi Stadium Consortium’. In order to create a landmark project for the city of Durban, the ideas of traditional architectural monuments and cultural pride were challenged. The design of an iconic building drove the conceptual thinking behind both design of aesthetics and technical resolution.
The project embraces innovation to effect a powerful architectural change needed within the South African landscape.
Rooting the project in a South African context involved the search for an African aesthetic. Clarity of form and detail, complexity of composition, balance and symmetry as well as a high quality of workmanship were traits the design sought to exhibit as a connection to the traditional art forms of the region.
A radical new form was developed to respond to sustainable development as well as the changing needs of climate and crowd capacity.
Structure
A revolutionary, single roof structure was designed to seat capacities varying between 45,000-100,000. The use of a geo-structural form reduced the weight and amount of steel needed by 25%, removing the need for superfluous secondary structures.
Skin
An interactive membrane integrated into a sinuous coastal park leading to the development of fluid forms, alluding to the coastal character of Durban.
Flexible bowl
Permanent seating formed by re-usable, mobile form work is integrated with temporary seating to vary with different sporting events. The shape of the bowl allows for a range of sport events to be hosted within the stadium with maximised views on the east-west stands.
Comfortable bowl
Passive, low-tech and low-maintenance environmental systems with the use of ‘smart skin’ infill panels which operate independently to regulate airflow, sunlight and ambient conditions.