Populous create 20,000-capacity venue with sustainability at its heart

New images have been released for the Munich Arena in Freising, designed by Tenderstream member Populous together with general planners HENN and landscape architects Latz+Partner. The team approached the project with the overall aim to develop a sustainable, multi-functional 20,000-capacity venue that will redefine the entire visitor experience. The design brief also included requirements for an iconic concept paying homage to Bavarian heritage and culture.

Located within a large green space, the arena will form the cornerstone of the wider Munich airport masterplan. A generous and inviting Arena Plaza guides visitors from the airport’s innovation and technology campus towards the entrance, where the facade is open towards the east, welcoming spectators into the building on two levels. The design features a diamond-shaped exoskeleton that refers to shapes on the Bavarian state flag. Inside, the concept implements a new approach to bowl design, in which seating is arranged around the multifunctional stage in a 270-degree horseshoe shape.

Munich Arena is aiming for DGNB Gold certification, which would mark the project as the first concert venue to receive such an accolade. Life cycle-based planning provides for a reduction of the carbon footprint during construction, as well as determining sustainable strategies for building operation. The strategy has been developed and in close cooperation with the German Sustainable Building Council and will be measurable from the outset. A self-sufficient energy supply is ensured by the installation of several thousand PV/solar panels on the roof of the arena, car park and hotel, as well as utilising an existing opportunity for geothermal and district heating.

Declan Sharkey, Populous senior principal & global director, stated: “We are extremely proud to be working on the Munich Arena project, combining the local approach of our team in Germany with the resources and expertise in Arena design from our teams around the world. Our aim has been to create a unique venue that will be an iconic destination for live events and experiences in Bavaria and beyond.”

Lucy Nordberg

Tenderstream Head of Research

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