‘multi-purpose arena’ by 3XN all images courtesy 3XN

‘multi-purpose arena’ by copenhagen-based practice 3XN is one of the shortlisted finalists in the ‘future projects – competition entries’ category of this year’s world architecture festival. working with a site in united arab emirates, the design aims to capture the energy and growth of the middle eastern region by basing the overall form on the centrifugal power of a whirlwind.

3XN: multi purpose arena ‘whirlwind’ facade

wrapped in a series of modulated ribbons, the double facade intends to make the building seem light and luminous, leaving strips of the design exposed to allow views in to the interior activities. the runaway ‘jet streams’ from the whirlwind create shaded corridors, which meet and extend the lines of the area, connecting the building to its surroundings. the ribbons are also strategically placed to maximize on natural daylight while keeping the interior shaded and cool to save on energy intake.

3XN: multi purpose arena interior lobby

the arena is designed to provide for a wide range of events including ice hockey to large-scale concerts. the layout and design of the facility ensures flexibility, allowing for the conduct of a number of activities within a very short period of time.

3XN: multi purpose arena circulation space

3XN: multi purpose arena arena

3XN: multi purpose arena night view

3XN: multi purpose arena floor plan / level 0

3XN: multi purpose arena floor plan / level 1

3XN: multi purpose arena floor plan / level 2

3XN: multi purpose arena floor plan / level 3

3XN: multi purpose arena floor plan / level 4

3XN: multi purpose arena cross section

3XN: multi purpose arena cross section

3XN: multi purpose arena detailed section