Design Concept

The architectural vision is to create a new, sustainable icon for 'Green Architecture,' rooted in a symbiotic relationship with nature. The core concept is the Baumstamm (Tree Trunk), where the timber facade acts as protective bark. This elliptical, monolithic form unites the Arena, office tower, and public space into a single ensemble. The design emphasizes functional flexibility, allowing seamless transition between large-scale concerts, international sports events, exhibitions, and media productions, while addressing contemporary security and pandemic requirements.

Concept

Lighting concept Yann Kersale

Siteplan

Urban Integration and Spatial Experience

The Arena’s elliptical form acts as a key urban catalyst for the Marx district, precisely unlocking a generous, two-tiered public space that strategically integrates surrounding infrastructure and media hubs. This masterplan focus ensures seamless connectivity and manages the flow of 20,000 spectators. The user journey is defined by intuitive pedestrian circulation from the U3 subway to the main entrance and culminates with the Sky Bridge, which offers a unique civic connection to the adjacent tower. Inside, the spatial experience prioritizes visibility and atmosphere in the main event bowl, enhanced by the high-quality Moiré facade effect and optimized sightlines for every seat.

Structural Concept

The structural solution embodies the logic of an integrated hybrid system, where high-performance timber and steel are engineered for optimal efficiency, longevity, and buildability. The structure is a direct expression of the design, maximizing the use of natural materials to safely manage the extreme demands of long-span architecture and high-rise construction.

- Primary Structure: Hybrid engineered-timber system utilized for the Big Timber Tower and the Arena's main load-bearing framework.

- Roof Strategy: Doubly-curved, large-span lightweight timber roof surface designed for material minimization and efficient support of technical event loads.

- Integrated Design Review: Structural feasibility and cost-effectiveness confirmed via early, external supply chain analysis and structural review.

Concept diagrams structure

Construction sequence

Plan Drawings

Elevation

Sustainability (Regeneration/Resilience)

The WH Arena is defined by its commitment to climate protection, aiming for a minimal ecological footprint and regenerative performance. The holistic design strategy utilizes material science and renewable energy generation to deliver a resilient, high-efficiency venue for Vienna.

- Regenerative Material: High volume of structural timber acts as a natural carbon sink, sequestering CO2 and directly supporting city climate goals.

- Energy Production: Integration of the largest possible PV system on the roof to achieve maximum renewable energy generation and high energy efficiency.

- Resilience: Building envelope and systems engineered for long-term operational stability and adaptability to evolving security, extreme climate, and public health standards.

Sustainability