Santiago Bernabéu Stadium Conversion | gmp Architects

Architecture, Stadium

It is an authentic legend: the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, home of Spanish soccer record-holder Real Madrid. Over the past decade, the stadium has been remodeled and expanded according to a comprehensive master plan. The old Bernabéu’s disparate mix of architecture has been transformed into an innovative and versatile multifunctional arena. A retractable lawn gives way to a fixed ground slab that enables a wide range of events beyond sports. A retractable roof allows the stadium to adapt flexibly to any weather conditions. The existing building was largely retained and enclosed with a new wraparound facade made of stainless steel louvers.

In 2014, the architects von Gerkan, Marg and Partners (gmp), together with L35 Arquitectos and Ribas & Ribas Arquitectos, won first prize in the competition to revamp the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid. Since opening in 1947, the stadium has undergone various additions and renovations over the years. The new design establishes a coherent overall concept for the first time. The stadium’s bulk is wrapped by a continuous facade that unites a variety of functions, including the Real Madrid Museum and space for restaurants and retail. When the stadium is not hosting a match, a “skywalk” offers visitors a chance to explore the stadium, making the Bernabéu a public attraction in Madrid beyond its primary use.

Cross Section

In 2014, gmp was commissioned to revitalize the Bernabéu Stadium – Volkwin Marg and Florentino Pérez present the design at a press conference.

Our design gives form to the ideas of “movement” and “dynamism.” The stadium’s massing may appear at first glance to be autonomously determined – but in reality it dances within tightly defined parameters. It wraps the stadium’s form, which has evolved over time through numerous alterations and additions, in a vibrant way, allowing for new concepts of use and responding to contemporary urban conditions and structural requirements.

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