Turbine or propeller

Samara Stadium

History

The Samara Stadium, which was designed for the 2018 World Cup, lies at the northern edge of the Russian metropolis. The circular stadium, with seating for 45,000 spectators, is surrounded by a park landscape with a circular layout intersected by radial footpaths.

The design is based on a large-scale spherical calotte shape, which was favored by the Russian project partners. The idea was to create a reference to Samara’s aviation and mechanical engineering industries, making the building appear like a large turbine or propeller. gmp designed the arrangement of the functional areas of the stadium and the geometry of the grandstand bowl in accordance with the parameters given.

Design

In addition, numerous studies were undertaken on the roof construction in order to resolve the construction-related and geometric conflict between the roof calotte and the geometry of the grandstands. Both were developed as independent structural systems, facilitating modular prefabrication and an independent construction process.

The proposed construction of the stadium roof consists of radially arranged cantilever bearers lined with a perforated, transparent outer skin. Translucent membranes cover the areas between these bearers. By alternating transparent and opaque areas, the spectators in the grandstands are provided with a view like that through a slowly rotating propeller; furthermore, during the hours of darkness the light coming from the venue can be seen from afar, radiating out into the city.

Based on the blueprint of the original design that had been produced by gmp by 2014, the Russian project partners implemented a stadium that deviates significantly from the original design in terms of size, construction, and spatial effect.

City and legacy

Samara is located on the bank of the Volga River, one of largest rivers in the world and the longest river in Europe. It is a major economic, industrial, cultural and scientific center. Throughout the 20th century, Samara’s history was closely intertwined with space, as it became the very place where launch vehicles were designed and manufactured. Another point of pride for Samara residents in the fact that their city boasts the largest square in Europe, Kuybysheva Square, which will host the FIFA Fan Fest™. Samara also has the highest railway station building in Europe (101 m) with an observation deck, and the longest embankment in Russia (5 km).

After Russia 2018, the stadium will be home to Krylya Sovetov, a club that has made a number of appearances in Europe’s club competitions.