Aires Mateus . gonçalves vieira – cruz . AFL Architects . renders: © imagens do bernardo
Aires Mateus has won the competition for the renovation of the National Stadium.
As a Listed heritage site, the National Stadium holds a profound cultural and historical significance.
The proposed design sensitively reimagines the stadium to meet modern needs while preserving its unique integration within the natural landscape of the Vale do Jamor. This balance of heritage and innovation secured the first-place prize in the prestigious 2024 competition.
The National Stadium’s defining feature is its harmonious integration with the surrounding topography. Our design respects this foundational concept, embedding modern elements seamlessly into the terrain while preserving the original character of the site.
The centerpiece of the proposal is a new “topographical roof” that complements the stadium’s surroundings.
Drawing inspiration from the the original design, the roof harmonizes with key architectural elements, such as the Honour Stand and the Colonnades, while maintaining a strong connection to the natural terrain. This ensures a visual and structural continuity between the built environment and its landscape.
The innovative roof system uses a Pratt truss structure supported at four strategic points for optimal load distribution. A translucent fabric cladding enhances the aesthetic, subtly concealing the structural elements and creating a lightweight, elegant appearance.
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Architecture: Manuel Aires Mateus, Rita Ochoa, José Maria Gonçalves Vieira, and Tomás Cruz.
Landscape Architecture: João Nunes (PROAP)
Engineering: Rui Furtado (AFACONSULT).