New National Stadium (XVI) – design description

Simple and strong forms, this is what Eduardo Souto Moura is known for. This time, along with Andre Campos he proposed a very regular, modest and traditional form topped with lightweight cable roof. While it’s hardly decorative in terms of materials used, the concrete outer bowl is semi-open and allows light and shade to play a big role, shaping its appearance.

The vision has been submitted in 2012 as part of international design competition for New National Stadium of Japan. It wasn’t selected as part of the 12-project shortlist, but we consider it worthy of greater attention.

Part of the requirements of Japan Sport Council was for the venue to host Olympics and World Cup final in optimum conditions. Thus the retractable seating encircling field of play and retractable roof over it.