Ael Fc Arena: A Glowing Drop-Scene of Architectural Brilliance

An Architectural Marvel by Potiropoulos and Partners

The inspiration for the Ael Fc Arena came from the concept of a box of light opening to reveal its contents. The roof of the stadium forms a landscape of intricate surfaces, creating a continuous front on the eastern boundary of the square. The use of glass and metal in the design allows for an airy and transparent architecture that transforms into a floodlit spectacle at night. The interplay between natural and artificial light on the crystalline forms creates a mesmerizing drop-scene that invites spectators to observe and marvel at its beauty.

What sets the Ael Fc Arena apart from other stadiums is its integration with various facilities. In addition to the football stadium, the complex includes a sports team hostel, a commercial-entertaining center, cultural functions, and a tennis club. The design revolves around the central square, with successive activities interacting with each other while ensuring ample space for pedestrians. The organization of the stadium is based on four orthogonal tiers of seats, with one tier extending from the building volume to accommodate interior spaces tailored to the specific needs of the venue.

The realization of the Ael Fc Arena involved the use of cutting-edge technology. The stadium roof system features jagged surfaces, creating a visually striking effect. The extensive use of glass and metal not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the overall functionality of the design. The unpredictable refractions of light on the crystalline forms result in a glowing spectacle that captivates spectators and enhances their experience.

With a building area of 48,900 square meters, the Ael Fc Arena stands as a testament to architectural excellence. The design team, led by Potiropoulos and Partners, collaborated with various entities to bring this project to life. The structural engineer, electromechanical engineer, traffic engineer, environmental impact assessment expert, and geotechnical engineer all played crucial roles in the successful realization of this architectural masterpiece.

The Ael Fc Arena is not just a stadium; it is an immersive experience. The design seamlessly blends the excitement of a football game with the commingling of spectators. Everywhere you turn, there is a sense of overlapping events, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.

Located in Neapoli, Larissa, Greece, the Ael Fc Arena was designed between 2005 and 2009, with construction taking place from 2009 to 2010. This project posed several challenges, including the development of successive activities around the central square while ensuring pedestrian-friendly spaces. The design team overcame these challenges through meticulous research and innovative thinking.

The Ael Fc Arena has garnered recognition and accolades for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2022. This prestigious award celebrates designs that exhibit creativity, resourcefulness, and technical excellence. The Ael Fc Arena truly embodies these qualities and contributes to the improvement of quality of life through its innovative approach to architecture and design.

Photographs: Charalambos Louizidis, Katerina Glinou