foster + partners: the hydro set to open in 2013

foster + partners: the hydro set to open in 2013

the new 12,000-seat cultural arena has recently celebrated the completion of its primary structure, well under way to meet its 2013 opening date.

‘the hydro’ by foster + partners, glasgow, scottlandimage © foster + partners

 

 

having just celebrated the ‘topping out’ ceremony upon the tightening of the last screw in the roof structure, the ‘hydro’ entertainment venue in glasgow will become the newest addition to the scottish exhibition and conference center. its ovular shape is modeled after the ancient roman and greek amphitheaters to provide optimal views from any seat.  the iconic facade is made up of pneumatic translucent cushions, originally developed for use by NASA, to allow the interior to be illuminated during the day but give off a very distinct glow at night. designed by british practice foster + partners, the 12,000-seat cultural event hall is scheduled to open in the fall of 2013 and is projected to become the fifth largest venue in the world, injecting upwards of 131 million pounds into the economy from the one-million estimated annual visitors.

 

 

foster + partners: the hydro set to open in 2013 - 1view from the waterfrontimage © the hydro

 

 

foster + partners: the hydro set to open in 2013 - 2approachimage © the hydro

 

 

foster + partners: the hydro set to open in 2013 - 3lobby leading to seating areasimage © the hydro

 

 

foster + partners: the hydro set to open in 2013 - 4peripheral circulationimage © the hydro

 

 

foster + partners: the hydro set to open in 2013 - 5venue interiorimage © foster + partners

 

 

foster + partners: the hydro set to open in 2013 - 6site sectionimage © foster + partners

 

 

foster + partners: the hydro set to open in 2013 - 7sectionimage © foster + partners

 

 

foster + partners: the hydro set to open in 2013 - 8section perspectiveimage © foster + partners