Avicii Arena Stockholm building, Stockholm Architecture News, Swedish event space
Avicii Arena Stockholm building
Key Contemporary Swedish Stadium Development: New Building in the Capital of Sweden.
Updated 5 February 2025
Design: HOK with C.F. Moller Architects
Located: Stockholm, Sweden
Avicii Arena Stockholm building news
Avicii Arena Reopens Following Extensive Renovation and Modernization
The iconic Avicii Arena (Stockholm Globe Arena) in Stockholm had its first event on February 1, unveiling a state-of-the-art retractable acoustic panel system, modernised facilities and upgraded event spaces. This comprehensive transformation was carried out by the international design team of, among others, HOK, C.F. Møller Architects and schlaich bergermann partner (sbp) working for NCC and the client SGAF (fully owned by the city of Stockholm).
The renovation ensures that the world’s largest spherical building continues to serve as a world-class venue for sports, concerts and cultural events while preserving its architectural heritage.
The reopening on February 1 was marked by a historic sold-out performance by Swedish cult band Kite, who performed their first-ever concert on ice. This set the stage for a new era of unforgettable events at the arena.
The renovation of Avicii Arena addresses the need to update its original 1989 configuration to meet the demands of contemporary events. The architectural solution blends cutting-edge construction technology with respect for the building’s protected status. Key features include a sophisticated steel ring construction supporting a retractable roof with acoustic panels and rigging system, enhanced gondola seating, new tiers, new seats and lounges that elevate the fan experience.
“This project celebrates the past while embracing the future,” said Kirsty Mitchell, senior project manager at HOK. “Our design solutions honour the arena’s iconic architecture while introducing innovative and forward-thinking features that ensure its relevance for decades to come.”
The renovation introduces groundbreaking solutions to enhance the versatility and experience of the arena. The retractable system’s movable panels provide unmatched acoustic optimisation and can create intimate atmospheres. New gondola seating offers unique views of the action, while lounges provide exclusive hospitality areas with spectacular perspectives of the arena’s architecture.
“We are proud to have played a role in transforming Avicii Arena into a modern multi-purpose venue,” said Mårten Leringe, partner and architect at C.F. Møller Architects. “By blending technical innovation with intelligent design, we have ensured that the arena continues to be a cultural and architectural landmark.”
Structural engineers sbp focused on upgrading the arena’s original structure to accommodate the demands of its new features. The innovative retractable acoustic panel system and rigging grid is ingeniously suspended within the inner curved ring structure and the outer perimeter compression ring. The slender cable net structure supports the retractable panels and all rigging elements and is equipped with a walkable mesh to warrant a large and safe working platform to host future events. “Updating a structure as unique as the Avicii Arena requires a careful balance of preservation and innovation,” said Knut Stockhusen, board member and managing director at sbp. “This project showcases how engineering excellence contributes to architectural heritage and modern performance.”
The modernisation of Avicii Arena is a vital part of Stockholm’s broader urban regeneration, aligning with sustainable practices to preserve and adapt existing structures. The arena’s enhanced flexibility ensures it can host a diverse array of events, from ice hockey and concerts to world-class cultural showcases, reinforcing the Avicii Arena’s and Stockholm’s role as a central hub for community connection and international entertainment.
About Avicii Arena
Originally inaugurated in 1989 as The Stockholm Globe Arena, the Avicii Arena is one of Stockholm’s most recognisable landmarks. Renamed in honour of the late Swedish artist Avicii, the arena remains a vital venue for culture, sports, and entertainment, attracting millions of visitors annually.
Avicii Arena in Stockholm, Sweden – building information
Design: HOK – https://www.hok.com/ with C.F. Moller Architects – https://www.cfmoller.com/
Project: Modernization of Avicii Arena
Client: Stockholm Globe Arena Fastigheter AB (SGA Fastigheter), fully owned by city of Stockholm
Arena operator: Stockholm Live
Construction time: January 2024 – January 2025
Contractor: NCC Building Sweden
Form of cooperation: Turnkey contract in cooperation
24 July 2023
Avicii Arena, Europe’s Largest Spherical Building
image : HOK
Avicii Arena Stockholm Building Design
Stockholm Globe Arena Fastigheter AB (SGAF) and the Avicii Arena project team have unveiled further details about the modernization and transformation project. NCC, the Nordic construction company that built the original venue in 1989, has been selected as the construction manager for the project. The iconic venue, listed as a heritage building, is set to undergo a significant upgrade.
The renowned building, home to Sweden’s national hockey team, hosts a diverse array of eventsand high-profile concerts. The National Hockey League (NHL) recently announced plans for four regular season games to be held at the venue later this year.
image : HOK
New artists renderings, which are subject to change, illustrate the extensive retrofit of the structure, which will feature a unique retractable ceiling concept to enhance acoustics and create a more intimate atmosphere for fans and concert-goers. A ring-like structure will hover above the seating bowl, with automated, movable panels that can transform the building and optimize the reverberation time according to the type of event. When not in use, panels can be parked out of sight to allow unobstructed views of the spherical building.
HOK is the design architect, C.F. Moller Architects is the associate architect and sbp is the structural engineer and design lead for the retractable roof. Ramboll is the MEP engineer, Efterklang is the acoustical engineer, Light Bureau is the lighting designer, AFRY is overseeing cost management and Movement Strategies is leading crowd dynamics.
Avicii Arena Stockholm building images / information received 240723 from HOK / C.F. Møller
Location: Stockholm, Sweden, northeast Europe.
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